Bruce Willis' Early Days at NBC
Imagine Bruce Willis, long before his action-hero days, walking the halls of NBC not as a star, but as a page. It's a fascinating picture, right? Bill Murray recently spilled the beans on this intriguing tidbit from Willis’ past during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. In his early 20s, around the late 1970s, Willis wasn't yet the well-known face from the Die Hard movies; he was, quite simply, a young man ensuring that actors like Murray and Gilda Radner had their M&M’s and pretzels stocked. This simple yet humble-start fact gives us a new perspective on the actor who would go on to become a global superstar. Murray fondly remembered Willis thanking him and Radner for their kindness during those times, and this gesture helped cement a lasting friendship between them.
Setting the Record Straight on SNL and Drug Rumors
While sharing these insights, Murray took the opportunity to tackle one of the long-standing rumors surrounding the early days of Saturday Night Live (SNL): rampant drug use among the cast members. Digging into this, Murray, with his trademark sarcasm, suggested how unrealistic it would be to think that a group could consistently put together a live 90-minute television show under the influence. The absurdity of pulling off such a feat weekly while impaired is exactly what makes the myth just that—a myth. Murray emphasized the strong professionalism and camaraderie that characterized the original cast, knocking down any exaggerated tales of chaos behind the scenes.
Beyond rumors, Murray also offered personal reflections during the conversation, particularly when speaking about his good friend Bruce Willis, who is currently facing serious health challenges. Willis' recent diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia, which led to his retirement from acting in 2022, has been difficult. Yet, even amidst these struggles, their bond remains strong.
The chat couldn't end without touching on those famous SNL after-parties. According to Murray, these were the times when the ragtag group of comedians truly let loose. From bar-hopping adventures that stretched across New York City's boroughs to wild late-night antics with icons like John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd, those days were legendary.
While many might recall the laughter and sketches broadcasted on screen, it’s these behind-the-scenes stories and unseen friendships that paint the full picture of those formative SNL years. Bill Murray’s anecdotes not only offer a glimpse into a lesser-known side of Bruce Willis but also serve to remind us of the dedication and unique camaraderie that marked the beginning of a comedic institution.
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