David Letterman Reveals Shocking Truth: Why He Failed Airplane! Audition

Summary

Comedian David Letterman's failed audition for the lead role in Airplane! revealed that he admitted he couldn't act during the funny yet disastrous audition.

Airplane! is widely hailed as one of the greatest comedies of all time, thanks to its timeless quotes and unforgettable slapstick humor that have secured its place in film history. Despite the less acclaimed sequel, the original Airplane! will always be revered as a comedic masterpiece, and director David Zucker's upcoming film may capture that same magic. The inclusion of Letterman's narrative only enhances the film's legacy.

Comedian David Letterman has recently shared an interesting anecdote about his unsuccessful attempt to audition for the lead role in the iconic comedy film, Airplane!. In the book Surely You Can't Be Serious: The True History of Airplane!, authored by the film's directors David Zucker, Jim Abrahams, and Jerry Zucker, the details of Letterman's audition are revealed. Despite lacking experience as an actor, Letterman decided to give it a shot, resulting in a hilariously disastrous audition where he openly confessed his inability to act. Here's what Letterman had to say about the experience:

Why Airplane! Is A Classic Comedy Film

Upon arrival, I discovered a meticulously arranged cockpit adorned with chairs for the aircraft. I took a seat in one of the chairs, while another was designated for the copilot. We executed the scene once, received feedback from the crew, and proceeded to repeat it twice more. Throughout the process, I incessantly voiced my doubts about my acting abilities, reiterating, 'I can't act, I can't act, I can't act.' Astonishingly, one of them approached me post-audition, confirming my concerns with the words, 'You're right: you can't act!'

Regarded as one of the all-time funniest films, this comedy masterpiece has been recognized for its excellence by securing a place in the prestigious US National Film Registry. Airplane! is famous for its timeless quotes like "Don't call me Shirley," which have become legendary punchlines and etched the movie's name in the annals of cinematic history. Furthermore, the movie's absurd humor and abundance of physical gags ensure that it remains unforgettable, extending its impact far beyond its iconic dialogue.

The success of the initial film led to the creation of Airplane II: the Sequel, which received less positive reviews than its predecessor. Nevertheless, all three directors involved in the first movie also contributed to the production of other iconic comedies, including The Naked Gun. Despite a sequel that was not as well-received, the original Airplane! will always be hailed as one of the greatest comedies ever made.

Director David Zucker's upcoming film, The Star of Malta, may capture the same essence as his renowned masterpiece. While it is impossible to replicate the original, other parody films can still draw inspiration from the timeless comedic brilliance of the disaster spoof. Even though Letterman did not land the lead role, his involvement will forever be part of the history of this legendary comedy.

Source: EW