Comedian David Spade recently shared a revealing story about late actor Corey Haim during an episode of the podcast Fly on the Wall, co-hosted by Dana Carvey and Spade himself. The conversation took place as they discussed the 2003 comedy Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star, a film featuring many former child actors and co-produced by Adam Sandler. The podcast episode touched on a poignant moment when Haim, who passed away in 2010 at age 38, asked Spade for money to buy lunch while filming a musical number written by Robert Smigel.
Context From Dickie Roberts and Its Former Child Stars
Spade reflected on the film’s cast, which brought together numerous former child stars including Corey Feldman, Barry Williams, Emmanuel Lewis, Leif Garrett, and Danny Bonaduce. During the discussion, Spade mentioned a musical scene that involved the entire ensemble, including Haim. The comedian recounted how Haim approached him after singing, seeking a per diem to purchase food off campus.
Details of the Lunch Money Request
According to Spade, Haim walked to him directly and said,
“Hey, hey, thanks for having me… Uh, hey, I was going to go off campus and eat.”
Then he asked,
“Do we get a per diem for today?”
When Spade was unsure of the answer, Haim pressed on.
“I don’t think I’m the one that gives you your per diem,”
Spade replied, but Haim insisted,
“But I need some ’cause I want to go get lunch. You got 100 bucks or something? I could just go get lunch?”
Spade ended up giving him the money despite his uncertainty.
Spade’s Reflection on the Situation and Its Challenges
Looking back, Spade expressed concern over that moment, especially knowing Haim struggled with substance abuse. He said,
“I swear at the time it didn’t even hit me that he might go use or something. And he probably didn’t, but I was like, ‘Was that stupid? Was that f—ing dumb of me?’”
Beyond the anecdote, Spade also addressed a more widespread issue among former child actors. He observed that often their parents manage their earnings and, by the time these actors reach adulthood, little money remains.
He stated,
“The parents a lot of the time, not all the time, a lot of times the parents are, like, spending the money. They’re like, ‘Hey, you’re my kid. It’s my money.’ And then when they’re 18, they’re like, ‘Back up that Brinks truck!’ And they’re like, ‘The thing is, there’s not a ton left.’”
This reflection highlights the financial difficulties that many young stars face once they leave the spotlight.
The Film’s Reception and the Podcast’s Revealing Tone
Spade’s candid recounting adds a serious dimension to the laughter of the Fly on the Wall podcast, showing the complex realities behind the entertainment industry’s former child celebrities. It also explains why Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star, while a comedy, has not become as warmly remembered or cherished as other films from that period. The conversation offers listeners a sobering look into the lives of former child actors and the challenges they often endure both financially and personally.
