Michael Douglas took to a Q&A session at a screening of his classic Wall Street in New York City recently and reminisced about his enduring friendship with fellow Hollywood legend Jack Nicholson. The actor shared an anecdote from their decades-long collaboration, which began over five decades ago when they co-starred in 1975’s One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.
Douglas recalled how Nicholson often chaffed at him for enhancing his character’s appearance to make a lasting impression. “The character’s hair has always been an important part of my performance,” Douglas quipped, adding with a chuckle, “It’s just funny how that kind of thing helps.” He then elaborated, “Jack would constantly tease me about the way I used to style my hair for roles. I remember him saying, ‘What’s with his hair acting?’ and I’d say, ‘You should talk.'”
Their professional and personal relationship has lasted over five decades since their first collaboration in 1975, a testament to their shared passion for cinema. Douglas also highlighted Nicholson’s pivotal role in securing the star actor’s debut Oscar win.
Douglas reflected fondly on his memorable time portraying Gordon Gekko, the infamous stockbroker who embodies Wall Street’s excess and greed. The Q&A was a platform for Douglas to discuss how he landed the part of Gekko, an iconic role that would define both their careers. “I saw an article recently that said Oliver Stone initially approached Warren Beatty — who passed it on — then Richard Gere before finally reaching me,” Douglas recalled. He further shared his enthusiasm about the script and the substantial work required for the film.
“He was serious in a way I hadn’t seen before, so when he asked me if I’d be interested in doing it… I wasn’t sure at first,” Douglas reminisced. “I didn’t know Oliver or many of these people, but after reading through the script, I felt that it was an incredibly important piece to tell. So, I said yes and went from there.”
Douglas emphasized how his familiarity with aspects of Gekko’s character played a key role in securing him the part. His experience with Nicholson as well as the director’s initial reluctance added another layer to their bond. “It’s not often you get good parts, let alone iconic ones like Gordon Gekko,” Douglas concluded, highlighting both the professional and personal significance of these roles in their careers.
This encounter at the Wall Street screening showcased Douglas’ passion for storytelling, intertwining humor with the serious nature of his career, much as he did with Nicholson’s influence on his craft.