Sally Struthers Recalls On-Set Accident During Topless Scene with Jack Nicholson, Praising Him as ‘Really Kind and Fun’ (Exclusive)

Sally Struthers Reflects on On-Set Accident During Topless Scene with Jack Nicholson ​

Sally Struthers has shared memories from her early career, including an on-set incident involving a topless scene with legendary actor Jack Nicholson. The 78-year-old actress, known for her upcoming role as Mrs. Peck in “An Old-Fashioned Family Murder,” recently sat down with PEOPLE to discuss her journey in show business.

The conversation with Struthers shed light on her beginnings in the theater world, where her interest in performing was initially sparked by her mother’s encouragement. Despite not initially aspiring to be an actor, Struthers found herself drawn to the stage, starting with high school theatre classes. She fondly recalls entertaining classmates since the second grade, a trait that seemed to come naturally to her.

As college approached, Struthers faced a turning point when her dream of following in her father’s footsteps as a doctor was marred by a challenging experience in a biology class. It was then that her mother suggested pursuing acting as an alternative path. With little hesitation, Struthers embraced her new direction and delved into theatre school, ultimately setting her on the path to a successful acting career.

One pivotal moment in Struthers’ early career was her involvement in the film “Five Easy Pieces,” where she worked alongside Jack Nicholson. Recalling the experience, she praised Nicholson for his professionalism and fun demeanor on set. However, a scene that required intimate physical contact between them led to an unexpected accident, resulting in both actors falling through a plate-glass window.

The film’s release, which included a brief topless scene featuring Struthers, caught her by surprise and left her feeling uneasy, especially when her family members reacted strongly to the footage. Despite the initial shock and discomfort, Struthers reflects on the moment with a sense of humour, acknowledging the passage of time and personal growth.

Struthers’ admiration for Nicholson continued beyond their shared on-screen scenes, as she recounted a heartwarming reunion with him decades later at a jewelry store. Despite her initial hesitation to approach him, Nicholson not only recognized Struthers but also took the initiative to greet her warmly. The unexpected encounter left a lasting impression on Struthers, highlighting Nicholson’s genuine and down-to-earth personality.

Fans of Struthers can look forward to seeing her upcoming performance as Mrs. Peck in “An Old-Fashioned Family Murder” at the George Street Playhouse in New Brunswick, NJ. The play, written by Joe DiPietro and directed by Larry Raben, promises to showcase Struthers’ talent and dedication to her craft.

In conclusion, Sally Struthers’ recollections of her past experiences in the entertainment industry offer a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her career. Her enduring respect for her colleagues, such as Jack Nicholson, serves as a testament to her professionalism and resilience in an industry known for its demanding nature. As she continues to captivate audiences with her on-screen presence, Struthers’ journey stands as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in pursuing one’s dreams.