Danny DeVito recently offered a heartfelt update on his longstanding friendship with Jack Nicholson, revealing they remain close after more than five decades. The actors, who first met while working on the classic film One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, continue to share a genuine bond rooted in their early Hollywood days.
Reflecting on Their First Meeting and Early Careers
<pDeVito, 80, recalled seeing Nicholson, now 88, just a few weeks ago during a recent interview with People published on July 12. He shared,
I just saw Jack a couple weeks ago — it was his birthday a month ago, and he’s great,
—Danny DeVito, Actor.
The friendship dates back over 50 years to their collaboration on One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, a film that greatly impacted their careers. DeVito described the atmosphere on set, noting that co-stars Christopher Lloyd and Brad Dourif were visibly impressed by Nicholson’s presence. He said,
We’re in the presence of this guy who’s really at his moment, where he was breaking out into the big time,
and added,
There was no need for an icebreaker. He was immediately just so embracing.
DeVito recounted how Nicholson’s openness made everyone comfortable.
DeVito also reflected on Nicholson’s early struggles in Hollywood, emphasizing their shared experiences in the industry.
He started out exactly the way everybody else did, where he couldn’t get a job. It was like he came to Hollywood and he was going to just write and direct, and then Easy Rider comes along after the Corman stuff … So he was in our milieu, and he was always just as open and genuine, and we all felt it immediately.
The Strength of Their Bond During Filming
DeVito explained that their closeness on set was partly by necessity due to the demands of the film but also because Nicholson’s personality naturally fostered connection.
He was also doing it because that had to be, because we had to be all joined at the hip in that movie, and we had such great performances,
he said. Their camaraderie contributed to the memorable performances delivered by the cast.
Jack Nicholson’s Recent Public Appearances and Legacy
Though Jack Nicholson has stepped back from the public eye in recent years, he made a notable appearance during the live broadcast of SNL50: The Anniversary Special in February. The event celebrated 50 years of Saturday Night Live and featured numerous entertainment icons.
During the special, Nicholson was seated in the crowd next to his daughter Lorraine, who supported him by gently rubbing his shoulder. He warmly introduced the comedian Adam Sandler, saying, Ladies and gentleman, Adam Sandler, fostering a heartfelt moment on live television.
The gathering included other prominent figures like Will Farrell, Robert De Niro and his partner Tiffany Chen, Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, and SNL alum Rachel Dratch, highlighting the reverence held for Nicholson in Hollywood circles. Nicholson’s family is large and extended, including children Lorraine and Ray with ex Rebecca Broussard, Jennifer with Sandra Knight, Caleb with Susan Anspach, Honey with Winnie Hollman, and Tessa with Jennine Gourin.
Adam Sandler playfully honored Nicholson before his performance, saying,
Yeah, baby! Let’s hear it for Jack, baby,
and adding,
Jack made it out tonight. Love you, brother.
—Adam Sandler, Comedian
The Lasting Impact of a Hollywood Friendship
The friendship between Danny DeVito and Jack Nicholson stands as a testament to enduring personal connections within the often-transient world of Hollywood. From their humble beginnings struggling to find work to becoming legends celebrated by peers, their bond reflects mutual respect and genuine affection.
DeVito’s recent reflections and continued closeness with Nicholson not only delight fans but also underscore the significance of relationships built through shared creative journeys. As Nicholson remains mostly out of the spotlight, updates like these shine a light on the private lives of beloved stars and the friendships that sustain them.
