Bill Murray has remembered the late Gene Hackman as both brilliant and notoriously difficult to work with, particularly during the filming of Wes Anderson's iconic film, The Royal Tenenbaums. Hackman, who passed away at the age of 95, was celebrated for his complex portrayals but was also known for being rather demanding on set. Murray reflected on his experiences working with Hackman during interviews following news of his death, emphasizing both the actor's immense talent and his challenging demeanor.
“He was a tough nut, Gene Hackman. But he was really good,” Murray, 74, recalled during an interview with the Associated Press. He went on to explain how Hackman's reputation as a tough actor was well-earned, especially when he was working with younger directors. "Older, great actors do not give young directors much of a chance. They’re really rough on them, and Gene was really rough on Wes," Murray added, referring to director Wes Anderson, who was just 32 when The Royal Tenenbaums was made.
Murray explained his role on set was often to defend Anderson against Hackman's frustrations. He shared one particularly memorable incident when Hackman completed dozens of takes perfectly, only to later deliver what he deemed as an ordinary performance when his scene partner finally got it right. “I was watching it going, ‘No wonder this guy wants to throttle people,’” Murray laughed, admitting he could see why Hackman was frustrated with the process.
Hackman’s performance as the family patriarch, Royal Tenenbaum, was remarkable, as it often contrasted sharply with the chaos happening around him. During his appearances on talk shows, including one on The Drew Barrymore Show, Murray shared how Hackman perceived Anderson as "just a punk kid". He elaborated, saying, "Gene felt he had to work with children and animals, which put him in very challenging positions, and he just thought, ‘What am I doing here with these people?’”
Murray also acknowledged Hackman's immense contributions to cinema, noting, “He made some of the greatest American movies.” He expressed empathy for Hackman's struggle on set, describing the actor's need for responsibility and quality standards. Despite initial challenges, Murray believed Hackman appreciated the final product of The Royal Tenenbaums. “When you see the movie, it’s a real piece of work. Wes Anderson makes great movies, and so does Gene Hackman,” he stated confidently.
After Hackman’s passing, which has been classified as “suspicious” by authorities, his collaboration with Murray and Anderson has come under remembrance. Police found Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their dog dead at their home, with the prior investigation noting strange circumstances around their deaths. The Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office revealed no outward signs of foul play but are awaiting toxicology reports to clarify the situation.
This tragic event follows years of mutual respect and admiration shared among Hollywood’s finest. “Gene was irritable; he just wanted things done right,” Murray remarked, capturing Hackman's dedication to the craft. "But the performance he gives is brilliant. I watched him, and I suffered with him because I saw what he was going through," he added.
Many actors and directors who worked with Hackman have shared their condolences and stories since his passing, including Clint Eastwood and Francis Ford Coppola, who both noted the great loss to cinema. Hackman’s career spanned decades, earning him two Academy Awards and four Golden Globe Awards, solidifying his status as one of the most talented and versatile actors in film history.
Murray concluded his heartfelt tribute during his appearance on Barrymore’s show by saying, “So goodbye, Gene, I hope you’re well wherever you are.” His words encapsulated not only appreciation for Hackman's contributions to film but also the challenge of working with such passionate, talented beings. The complexity of their working relationship reflects the often tumultuous yet rewarding dynamics of artistic collaboration. Merging the emotional depths achieved through their craft often requires grappling with strong personalities and differing visions, and Hackman was certainly emblematic of this truth.
Reflecting on the triumphs and trials of memorable performances, Murray's recounting of Hackman serves as both a tribute and reminder of the intense passion actors bring to their work. The legacy of Gene Hackman will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers and actors alike.