John Turturro Says He and Director Martin Scorsese Were ‘Nervous’ Working with Paul Newman on “The Color of Money”

John Turturro and Martin Scorsese Were ‘So Nervous’ Working With Paul Newman

John Turturro recently opened up about the nerve-wracking experience of working alongside the legendary actor Paul Newman in the 1986 film “The Color of Money.” The movie, directed by Martin Scorsese, turned out to be a significant moment in Newman’s career, earning him an Oscar for his performance.

During a podcast interview on the Happy Sad Confused show, Turturro shared insights about his time on set with Newman, reminiscing about the pressure he and Scorsese felt. The film served as a sequel to the 1961 classic “The Hustler,” with Newman reprising his role as “Fast Eddie” Felson, alongside Tom Cruise’s character, Vincent Lauria, and Turturro playing the role of another hustler named Julian.
Reflecting on Newman’s charismatic presence, Turturro described him as “a handsome man,” exuding charm and talent in every scene. He revealed that Scorsese, despite his reputation as a seasoned director, also felt the weight of working alongside Newman, often resorting to long jokes to break the tension on set.
Turturro recounted his nerves during the first day of shooting, highlighting the immense pressure of acting alongside a cinematic icon like Newman. However, as the filming progressed, Turturro and Scorsese developed a rapport with Newman, with the veteran actor offering valuable advice on the craft of acting.

Newman’s impact on Turturro extended beyond the film, as they grew to become friends and even engaged in charitable endeavors together. Turturro fondly recalled Newman’s wisdom about learning to relax on screen over time, shedding light on the actor’s dedication to his craft and perpetual growth as a performer.
“The Color of Money” marked a pivotal moment in Newman’s storied career, culminating in his well-deserved Oscar win, the seventh nomination of his career. Scorsese lauded Newman’s commitment to revisiting the character of Eddie Felson, portraying a nuanced and emotionally resonant performance that captivated audiences and critics alike.
As Turturro reflected on his experience working with a cinematic legend like Newman, he underscored the profound impact the actor had on his own journey as an artist. Newman’s legacy as an actor and humanitarian continues to inspire generations of performers, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema.