The Shameful Truth: Jean-Claude Van Damme Opens Up About His Friend's Cameo
Jean-Claude Van Damme candidly admits feeling ashamed of himself in his latest interview discussing his cameo appearance on Friends Recall how a Friends director previously stated that Van Damme was challenging to work with
Summary
Jean-Claude Van Damme criticizes his performance in his Friends cameo, admitting that he looks "like a ham" and feels ashamed of himself.
Van Damme had limited knowledge about Friends until his agent informed him, but he was pleased to join the show due to its immense popularity. According to a Friends director, Van Damme proved to be challenging to collaborate with, specifically referring to instances where he caused discomfort to Jennifer Aniston and Courteney Cox while shooting kissing scenes.
Jean-Claude Van Damme candidly expresses his dissatisfaction with his appearance on Friends, revealing his lack of enthusiasm for the experience. The renowned international action star, famous for his roles in Street Fighter and other similar films, was among the initial celebrities invited as guests. Van Damme portrayed a fictionalized version of himself in the second episode of Friends' second season, titled "The One After the Super Bowl: Part 2," causing tension between Rachel (Jennifer Aniston) and Monica (Courteney Cox) due to their mutual interest in him.
Reflecting on his cameo during an interview with the New York Post, Van Damme elucidates the reasons behind his discontent. The actor criticizes his own performance, describing himself as appearing "over the top," and expressing a sense of embarrassment. While promoting his Irish whiskey brand, Old Oak, Van Damme explains that he had minimal knowledge of the show prior to his agent informing him about the opportunity. The quote from Van Damme is provided below:
"I looked so absurd, and I felt foolish. It was a regretful experience for me, and I truly am ashamed of myself."
My acting skills are truly terrible. I come across as extremely exaggerated and attention-seeking, like, "Hey, girls." It's embarrassing to even watch myself. Then, while on set, those girls surprised me by giving me kisses on the lips. I felt utterly clueless about how to react or respond... It was a bizarre situation. However, I must admit, they were incredibly kind and friendly.
I had limited knowledge about the show prior to joining. When I arrived on the set, I encountered these two stunning girls who claimed that the show is currently the hottest sensation worldwide. Naturally, I was elated. My agent insisted that I do an episode with them, portraying a specific character.
A Friends Director Claimed Van-Damme Was Difficult To Work With
Michael Lembeck, the director of Friends' season 2 Super Bowl episodes, has alleged that Van Damme proved challenging to work with on set. Lembeck shared his recollections of Van Damme's cameo as part of a 2021 oral history of the Super Bowl two-parter. According to the director, Van Damme was unprepared and unprofessional, and he also mentioned an incident that made both Aniston and Cox uncomfortable.
In previously unaired deleted scenes, which the actor also acknowledges, Van Damme can be seen kissing Rachel and Monica. Lembeck asserted that Van Damme used his tongue during these kissing scenes, prompting both Aniston and Cox to ask Lembeck to intervene and request that Van Damme refrain from doing so. Lembeck revealed that he had to address this issue with Van Damme twice, with the second warning being more assertive.
Lembeck's remarks have not been addressed by Van Damme or any of the Friends cast. However, in his recent statements, the actor does discuss the peculiar nature of his cameo. While it may not be as indelible as Julia Roberts' appearance in the same episode, Van Damme's role, alongside the future Oscar winner, paved the way for various renowned personalities to grace the show's eight seasons. Notable names include Bruce Willis, George Clooney, and Winona Ryder, among others.
Source: New York Post
