Gary Oldman has shared heartfelt memories about his friendship with the late David Bowie, expressing that the world has deteriorated since the music icon’s death. The acclaimed actor’s reflections highlight the deep connection they shared over decades, from their early years in London to Bowie’s passing in January 2016.
Oldman spoke about the inspiration he drew from Bowie’s fearless artistic evolution and the lasting lessons their friendship taught him.
Lessons from a Creative Trailblazer
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Oldman said Bowie encouraged him to step beyond comfort zones to achieve greatness.
David always said, ‘When you’re wading out into the water and you can feel the sand beneath your feet, you feel safe and calm. But if you just go a little bit farther where your feet don’t quite touch the bottom, you’ll be in a place where you can do your best work.’
Oldman recalled that their bond began partly because they shared similar upbringings in London during the 1950s and 1960s, adding that Bowie’s sharp humor made their friendship special. Bowie’s constant reinvention was a source of inspiration for Oldman through the years.
He was always pushing the envelope. He reinvented himself and his music many times,
said Oldman.
He was inspiring because he was a great innovator and not afraid to try things. It’s nothing conscious, but that rubs off.
A World Changed by Bowie’s Passing
Reflecting on the impact of Bowie’s death, Oldman expressed a sense of loss both personal and cultural. He described Bowie as a unifying force, saying,
“Don’t you feel that since he died, the world’s gone to shit? It was like he was cosmic glue or something. When he died, everything fell apart.”
Oldman also revealed moments when Bowie’s presence still lingers in his mind.
I miss him. Occasionally, I’ll see something, it’ll make me laugh, and I’ll think, ‘God, I wonder what Dave would have made of this’, or ‘Oh, that would have made him laugh’.
Collaborations and Shared Artistic Ventures
Gary Oldman and David Bowie worked together on several projects, most notably in the 1996 film Basquiat, directed by Julian Schnabel. Bowie portrayed Andy Warhol, the influential artist and mentor to Jean-Michel Basquiat, while Oldman appeared alongside him in this portrayal of the American postmodernist art scene.
Additionally, Oldman featured in Bowie’s 2013 music video for “The Next Day,” appearing with Marion Cotillard, and paid tribute to the late artist at the 2016 BRIT Awards shortly after Bowie’s death.
At the ceremony, Oldman honored Bowie’s impact on music and culture, stating:
Over his career, David challenged and changed our understanding of the medium, whether in music or in life, he emphasised originality, experimentation, exploration. And in his very unique way, he also reminded us to never take ourselves too seriously,
He was the sweetest soul ever, with the best cheekbones, until it was done. David, you were mortal, but your potential was superhuman, and your remarkable music is living on. We love you, and we thank you.
Commemorating Bowie’s Legacy with a Star-Studded Tribute
In 2017, Oldman curated and performed at a special tribute concert titled
“Celebrating David Bowie With Gary Oldman And Friends”
at Brixton Academy, marking what would have been Bowie’s 70th birthday. The event featured performances by notable artists including La Roux, Tom Chaplin of Keane, Simon Le Bon from Duran Duran, Joe Elliott of Def Leppard, and members of Spandau Ballet.
Oldman opened the evening by performing a cover of Bowie’s 1997 track “Dead Man Walking,” demonstrating his ongoing dedication to preserving Bowie’s artistic influence and memory.
Enduring Influence of an Icon
Gary Oldman’s reflections reveal the profound void left by Bowie’s passing, while also celebrating the remarkable creativity and innovation Bowie championed throughout his life. Their shared history from London neighborhoods to global stages showcases a unique friendship that shaped both men’s artistic journeys. As Oldman continues to honor Bowie’s legacy through music and events, the world is reminded of the powerful mark Bowie made—and the challenging times that followed his loss.
