Anjelica Huston revealed in an interview with People magazine that her ex-boyfriend Jack Nicholson reached out to her during the Los Angeles wildfires earlier this year, offering her his home as a refuge. Huston, who had to evacuate her ranch in the Sierra Nevada mountains due to the fires, described the unexpected call as a comforting gesture. "The phone just rang out of nowhere, and it was him," Huston recounted. "It’s always a comfort when he calls… It was heartbreakingly sweet. I’ve gone back over it several times in my head, and I think next time I’d accept the invitation."
The history between Huston and Nicholson is a storied one. The two actors were involved in an on-and-off relationship that spanned from 1973 to 1990. Their romance ended definitively after Nicholson fathered a child outside of their relationship, a move that prompted Huston to marry sculptor Robert Graham two years later, in 1992. Despite their romantic past, Huston emphasized that she and Nicholson have maintained a friendly relationship over the years, describing it as "important."
"Life gets in the way," Huston explained about their limited interactions today. "Also, for some reason, they’ve been doing endless rerouting and road work near his house, so it takes hours to get to him, and that’s always irritating. I always managed to be late going to see him, which is very irritating for him."
Reflecting on her professional life, Huston recalled a significant moment in her career when her father, the legendary film director John Huston, cast her opposite Nicholson in the 1985 film Prizzi’s Honor. The film not only showcased their chemistry but also earned Huston an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. "The combination of [Jack] and my father made it really significant and important. They managed to circumvent all the difficulties, and we triumphed in the end," she said.
While Huston continues to act, with her next appearance in BritBox’s murder mystery Agatha Christie’s Towards Zero set to premiere on April 16, 2025, Nicholson has largely stepped back from the spotlight. He hasn't appeared in a film since 2010’s How Do You Know. However, he surprised fans with a rare public appearance in February 2025 during the SNL50 special, where he introduced a musical performance by his former co-star Adam Sandler from Anger Management.
The rekindled connection during a time of crisis, such as the wildfires, highlights the enduring bond between Huston and Nicholson, even if their paths have diverged over the years. Huston’s fond recollections of their past and the warmth of Nicholson’s gesture during a difficult time underscore the complexities of relationships, particularly those that have stood the test of time.
As the wildfires raged in California, many celebrities and public figures were affected, but Huston’s story stands out due to the personal nature of Nicholson’s outreach. It serves as a reminder that even amid chaos, compassion and friendship can prevail, transcending the boundaries of past relationships.
In today’s world, where disasters can strike unexpectedly, the importance of maintaining connections with loved ones, friends, and even ex-partners can provide solace and support. Huston’s experience with Nicholson is a testament to that notion, showcasing that sometimes, it’s the people from our past who come through for us in our times of need.
As both Huston and Nicholson navigate their respective careers and personal lives, their story reflects not only their individual journeys but also the lasting impact of shared experiences and the importance of kindness in times of distress.
