Los Angeles, CA – Bill Murray recently expressed his discontent with Bob Woodward’s portrayal of his late friend, John Belushi, in an interview with The Joe Rogan Experience. Belushi, a beloved comedian and actor, tragically passed away in 1982 at the age of 33, with his cause of death determined to be an overdose of cocaine and heroin.
Murray criticized Woodward’s 1984 biography, Wired, labeling it as “completely inaccurate” and questioning the validity of the sources used in the book. He highlighted Belushi’s impact on the comedy industry, noting that many individuals, including himself, received support and opportunities from the late actor during their early careers.
Despite being approached to participate in the book, Murray’s intuition led him to decline the offer. He expressed skepticism about the project from the start and ultimately chose not to be associated with it. Reflecting on his friendship with Belushi, Murray emphasized the late actor’s talent as the best stage actor he had ever seen.
Following his relocation to New York City, Murray collaborated with Belushi on various projects, including The National Lampoon Radio Hour and Saturday Night Live. Murray’s iconic role in Ghostbusters was initially envisioned for Belushi, showcasing the significant impact Belushi had on his career even after his passing.
In conclusion, Murray’s remarks shed light on the complexities of portraying real-life individuals in biographies and the importance of honoring their legacies with accuracy and respect. As a close friend and colleague of Belushi, Murray’s perspective offers valuable insight into the impact of Woodward’s portrayal on those who knew and admired the late actor.