Explore the remarkable career of Danny DeVito in this captivating episode of "Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade," where Hollywood legend DeVito joins hosts Carvey and Spade for a trip down memory lane. From his early days of off-Broadway theater struggles to his audacious "Taxi" audition, DeVito shares anecdotes that showcase his tenacity and flair. Immerse yourself in the world of this accomplished actor, director, and producer as he recounts the events that shaped his illustrious career, including working alongside the eccentric Andy Kaufman and the comedic harmony with Arnold Schwarzenegger on "Twins."
As DeVito walks us through behind-the-scenes tales from iconic projects like "Saturday Night Live," "Batman Returns," and "Matilda," his charm and vivid storytelling bring to life the creative processes and collaborations that define his work. Expect to be delighted as DeVito reminisces about his transformation into the Penguin, dives into his directorial experiences with a cast of enthusiastic children, and narrates the live performance of "Matilda" with an orchestra, exemplifying his diverse talents and enduring influence in entertainment. Join Dana Carvey, David Spade, and their legendary guest for an episode filled with laughter, memories and the creative spirit of a true industry icon.
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Danny DeVito's introduction to the acting world was fraught with challenges, but his persistence eventually led to notable off-Broadway success. Initially, without an equity card, he had to navigate the competitive audition scene in 1960s New York, enduring long waits to audition for parts that often seemed out of reach. His determination paid off when he caught the attention of Alan Garfield, leading to a role in "Shoot Anything With Hair That Moves." DeVito's portrayal of Martini in "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" for nearly a year at the Mercer Arts Center established him as a force in theater. Alongside his career growth, he lived in a modest New York apartment, embodying the spirit and grind of an aspiring actor.
DeVito's unorthodox approach during his "Taxi" audition entailed boldly throwing the script on the table and challenging the producers, a risk that ultimately sealed his casting. Working with Andy Kaufman on the show was a surreal experience, with DeVito witnessing Kaufman's bizarre antics firsthand. He recalls instances such as Kaufman wrestling a delivery woman and working incognito as a busboy at Jerry's Deli, incidents that showcased Kaufman's love for performance art that often merged his personal and professional life.
Hosting "Saturday Night Live" provided DeVito with a platform to engage in table reads of sketches with writers and cast, a process he describes as a collaborative effort fundamental to the show’s creation. DeVito fondly remembers diving into wacky personas, including his role in the "Hans and Franz" sketches, where he reveled in the overtly comedic and eccentric characters indicative of SNL's humor.
DeVito's account of working with Arnold Schwarzenegger on "Twins" reflects a friendly and humorous rapport that translated onscreen. He describes Schwarzenegger and his bodybuilder friends as a "pack of bros," a dynamic that facilitated a genuine chemistry. Their playful banter and jokes contributed to the film's comedic success and mirrored the movie's jovial theme of an unlikely brotherhood.
In "Batman Returns," DeVito not only starred but fully embraced the role of the Penguin, a character he was eager to play. Reflecting on his experience with director Tim Burton, DeVito remembers the excitement of portraying a villain in a fantastical Gotham City. The demanding process of undergoing extensive makeup prosthetics application for three hours daily underscores his dedication to achieving the remarkable onscreen presence of the Penguin.
On the set of "Man on the Moon," DeVito worked closely with Jim Carrey, who stayed in character as Andy Kaufman throughout filming. Carrey's commitment even extended to elaborate on-set pranks, including one where he blocked DeVito's trailer with his car. Recreating Tony Clifton's infamous stand-up gig posed challenges like unauthorized spray-painting, but such acts reinforced Carrey's deep dive into Kaufman's legacy of boundary-pushing performance.
Directing "Matilda" presented DeVito with unique challenges, including casting Mara Wilson and overseeing an exuberant cast of child actors. He likened the experience to "herding cats," given the large number of children involved and the absence of CGI to simplify the process. This demanding directorial role demanded significant organization and patience.
Danny DeVito narrates a live screening of "Matilda" accompanied by the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, providing live narration against the orchestral rendition of the film's soundtrack. The March 22nd event at the State Theater in New Brunswick is a distinctive mix of film and live performance. Original cast members, including Rhea Perlman, are expected to join DeVito, underscoring the film's enduring appeal and DeVito's commitment to bringing art to life in innovative ways.
1-Page Summary
Danny DeVito's journey from a hopeful actor to a name synonymous with talent and tenacity is laced with struggles and breakthroughs, encapsulating the grind of off-Broadway beginnings.
In the 1960s, DeVito didn’t have an equity card right out of school. He describes the process of scouring casting calls in newspapers like Backstage and enduring long lines for auditions near Carnegie Hall. DeVito often attended auditions later in the afternoon when lines were shorter, waiting for the chance to audition as a non-equity actor. He recalled how actors would congregate at places like Howard Johnson’s to share news about casting calls, buying papers such as Show Business and Backstage to find out about opportunities. DeVito shared the frustration of auditioning for roles that often had offers already out to stars, reflecting the difficulty of breaking into the acting scene.
Danny DeVito eventually got his break when Alan Garfield, spotting him peeking into an audition room after most people had left, advocated for him. This chance encounter led to DeVito landing a part in the play "Shoot Anything With Hair That Moves," marking the beginning of his off-Broadway career.
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Danny DeVito's Early Career Struggles and Off-Broadway Success
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Danny DeVito shares memorable anecdotes about his bold audition for "Taxi" and outlandish experiences with co-star Andy Kaufman.
DeVito recounts that at his "Taxi" audition, before beginning, he threw the script on the table and exclaimed, "Who wrote this shit?" This unexpected move led to laughter from the producers and a successful audition where he felt he couldn't do anything wrong. This moment showcases DeVito's daring approach and how it ultimately paid off in his casting.
Danny DeVito recalls witnessing Andy Kaufman engage in a wrestling match with a woman delivering a package in the hallway next to their dressing rooms. Kaufman had started yelling at her because she was "taking a man's job," which escalated into the unexpected altercation. This incident exemplifies the unpredictability and peculiar behavior Kaufman w ...
DeVito's Taxi audition story and experience working with Andy Kaufman
Danny DeVito reflects on his experiences hosting "Saturday Night Live" and the memorable moments he’s had on the show.
DeVito recalls sitting around the writers' room table, surrounded by the cast and crew, delving into table reads of sketches. This communal and collaborative process was an integral part of the SNL experience, where everyone contributed to refining the comedy and bringing the scripts to life.
One of the highlights for DeVito was the opportunity to dive i ...
DeVito's SNL hosting experiences and memories
Danny DeVito reminisces about the vibrant and humorous dynamic he shared with Arnold Schwarzenegger during the production of the movie "Twins."
DeVito recalls Schwarzenegger's exceptional sense of humor and the close-knit community he had with his bodybuilder friends. The group, which included individuals named Franco and Peter, brought to mind a "pack of bros," as DeVito put it, similar to the camaraderie he experienced on Saturday Night Live. This atmosphere brimmed with energy from both the intense gym workouts and the spirited discussions they shared.
DeVito attributes the onscre ...
DeVito working with Arnold Schwarzenegger on the movie Twins
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Danny DeVito played an iconic role in Tim Burton's "Batman Returns," bringing to life the character of the Penguin with a mixture of eagerness and dedication.
DeVito had a clear vision for the character and really wanted to take on the role of the Penguin. After meeting with Tim Burton, his enthusiasm only grew. He relished the opportunity to dive into the villainous character, appreciating the chance to 'go big' and embrace the exaggerated, operatic style of the role.
The physical transformation into the Penguin was no small feat. Initially, the process of applying makeup pros ...
DeVito directing and starring in Batman Returns as the Penguin
Danny DeVito recounts an immersive and sometimes challenging experience working with Jim Carrey on the set of "Man on the Moon," a film that showcased Carrey's dedication to character portrayal and penchant for memorable pranks.
During production, Jim Carrey remained in character, embodying the role of Andy Kaufman, which led to him committing to constant role-playing and engaging in elaborate pranks. DeVito recalls one incident in particular where Carrey, in the spirit of Kaufman's pranksterism, blocked DeVito's trailer with his car. This prank resulted in a bewildering situation that required a crane to resolve, moving Carrey's vehicle from the impromptu barricade it had formed.
Additionally, DeVito shares a story from when they were filming at Chasen's restaurant, reenacting one of Tony C ...
DeVito producing and starring alongside Jim Carrey in Man on the Moon
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Danny DeVito, who directed the beloved film "Matilda," shares insights from his experience behind the camera, particularly in working with the film's young star and the challenges of managing a large group of children on set.
DeVito does not detail the casting process in the information provided, but it is acknowledged that Mara Wilson, who had previously charmed audiences in "Mrs. Doubtfire," was chosen for the role of Matilda. Her performance in the earlier film likely highlighted her talent and contributed to her being cast in the titular role of "Matilda."
The director gives us a glimpse into the logistical complexities he faced while working on "Matilda." DeVito describes directing the film as an undertaking tha ...
Behind the scenes stories from directing the film Matilda
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Danny DeVito is set to bring a unique cinematic experience to New Jersey as he joins the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra to narrate a live screening of the beloved film "Matilda" at the State Theater in New Brunswick.
DeVito, the original narrator of the film, is expected to perform live narration while the orchestra plays on March 22nd. This special event pairs Danny’s distinctive voice with the musical accompaniment of the orchestra, engaging the audience in a live music event with an accompanying screening of "Matilda."
DeVito elaborates on the experience of narrating the movie as it rolls on the screen, with the symphony playing the soundtrack to the film live. This unique blending of DeVito’s live voice with the orchestra's performance creates a rich, immersive experience for the audience at the State Theater.
During the event, DeVito is excited to have the original film cast members join ...
Danny DeVito narrating a live screening of Matilda with a symphony orchestra in New Jersey
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