Billy Bob Thornton Drops Secret Revelation About Drew Barrymore
Billy Bob Thornton, Billy Bob Thornton secret revelation [Image Source: YIMG]
Billy Bob Thornton shared a surprising detail about Drew Barrymore’s past during a recent appearance on her talk show, revealing a secret that involved the late actor Rodney Harvey. This Billy Bob Thornton secret revelation unfolded as the two discussed their shared history from the set of the 1990s television adaptation of The Outsiders.
Thornton Brings Unexpected News to Barrymore
During Monday’s episode of The Drew Barrymore Show, Thornton, an Academy Award-winning actor, opened up about a long-standing secret from their time working together on The Outsiders for Fox. Thornton explained to Barrymore that while Harvey, his costar who portrayed Sodapop Curtis, was still alive, he had quietly admired Barrymore, who would sometimes visit the television set as a young girl. Referencing the era, Thornton recalled how Barrymore’s presence left an impression not just on the cast, but on Harvey specifically.
The show, inspired by the famous Francis Ford Coppola film and S.E. Hinton novel, only lasted a season. Thornton himself played Buck Merrill alongside Harvey, whose career included roles in films such as My Own Private Idaho and Five Corners before his death in Los Angeles in 1998 from a heroin and cocaine overdose at age 30.
Revelations and Reactions on Air
As the conversation unfolded, Barrymore hesitantly asked, wondering if Harvey had been more than a friend during their days on set. Thornton confirmed,
Image of: Billy Bob Thornton
“It was. We used to talk to each other all the time!”
— Billy Bob Thornton, Actor
The exchange caught the attention of fellow guest and Landman costar Demi Moore, who pressed for more specifics, asking,
“Okay, but who was the person?”
— Demi Moore, Actor
Understanding the sensitivity of the information, Thornton only whispered the name to Barrymore after getting her approval. Barrymore responded quickly to clarify the situation,
“Oh, yes! Oh no, it was Rodney Harvey, who was, by the way, not a boyfriend, just a very good friend,”
— Drew Barrymore, Actor and added,
“And I loved him and he has since passed.”
— Drew Barrymore, Actor
She then reflected on Harvey’s life and career, saying,
“Rodney Harvey is a beautiful human being. He would be in Gus Van Sant films and he was a real artist and he left us too soon.”
— Drew Barrymore, Actor
More Details Surface about Rodney Harvey’s Feelings
On air, Barrymore pointed out that Harvey had actually been involved with one of her friends at the time. Nonetheless, Thornton suggested Harvey may have had deeper feelings for her as well, recalling a party the cast attended after filming. Thornton hinted at this with,
“We were at that party one night after we’d wrapped and I’m just saying…”
— Billy Bob Thornton, Actor, and later admitted,
“I think Rodney lied to me.”
— Billy Bob Thornton, Actor
The news left Barrymore caught off guard. Reacting in disbelief, she stated,
“No, okay. No! We never did. Hoes before bros!”
— Drew Barrymore, Actor
Thornton responded with a laugh, reinforcing his point with,
“But just so you know, he wanted to.”
— Billy Bob Thornton, Actor
Reflecting on the Impact of the Revelation
The revelation left Barrymore visibly stunned on set, as she took a moment to process the information. She then shared her perspective on how boys sometimes mask their true feelings, remarking,
“They don’t really act like they like you, if they like you. And then we’re supposed to think that that’s a good thing and then take that sign, ‘Oh! You’re acting like you don’t like me! But I guess I’m thinking you do really like me?’ Boys.”
— Drew Barrymore, Actor
Thornton responded in agreement, acknowledging the complexity of young relationships. Moore, reacting to the dynamic among her co-guests, exclaimed, “Too much work!”
Rodney Harvey, remembered for his talents across acting, modeling, and dancing, and for his connection to influential directors like Gus Van Sant, had a lasting impact on those who knew him. His artistry and early passing are still noted by peers, including those present during this heartfelt talk show moment.
What This Means for Barrymore, Thornton, and Fans
The Billy Bob Thornton secret revelation offered audiences a glimpse into the close bonds formed on set, as well as the hidden stories that sometimes remain unspoken for years. This moment not only highlighted the enduring friendship between Barrymore and Thornton, but it also honored Harvey’s memory and the influence he had on his colleagues. With The Drew Barrymore Show continuing to air weekday episodes on CBS, viewers can expect more candid moments and heartfelt exchanges between beloved Hollywood figures.
