“A Christmas Story” Star Peter Billingsley Recalls Watching the Film at Age 18 with Hugh Hefner at the Playboy Mansion

**Peter Billingsley’s Unique Christmas Story Experience**

Peter Billingsley, known for his role in the classic holiday film “A Christmas Story,” recently shared an intriguing anecdote about watching the movie with an unexpected viewer – Hugh Hefner. The 54-year-old actor reminisced about this unusual screening during a charity event in Times Square, New York City.

During the event, Billingsley revealed that Hugh Hefner, the late Playboy magnate, was a “huge fan” of the movie and had invited him to a special screening at the Playboy Mansion when he was just 18 years old. Describing the experience as “very cool,” Billingsley acknowledged Hefner’s admiration for the film.

Despite being pressed for more details, Billingsley kept it brief, calling Hefner a “very gracious host.” The actor, now a producer and director, also shared some lesser-known facts about his involvement in the making of the iconic Christmas movie.

Looking back on his audition process for “A Christmas Story,” Billingsley recounted a surprising delay in hearing back after his initial audition. He mentioned being the first boy to audition for the film and how director Bob Clark eventually circled back to choose him for the role of Ralphie Parker after an extensive search.

Additionally, Billingsley disclosed that there were two fantasy sequences filmed for the movie that never made it to the final version. These scenes involved a Flash Gordon sequence and a confrontation with the villainous Black Bart’s gang during a Santa encounter that Ralphie foiled.

Despite the film’s release before the era of DVDs and behind-the-scenes extras, Billingsley expressed regret that these deleted scenes were lost as the film was shot on film and the footage was discarded. He mentioned trying to retrieve the scenes from Warner Bros. archives but to no avail.

Today, Billingsley still encounters fans of “A Christmas Story” who fondly remember his character’s iconic line, ‘Don’t shoot your eye out.’ He admitted that people often approach him to express how much the movie resonates with them, seeing their own families reflected in the characters’ experiences.

Reflecting on the enduring appeal of the film, Billingsley highlighted the relatable dynamics within the Parker family, noting the familiarity of the tough yet loving dad, caring mom, and mischievous but affectionate children. He emphasised the genuine love portrayed in the movie’s household setting, which continues to resonate with audiences.

In conclusion, Peter Billingsley’s recollection of watching “A Christmas Story” with Hugh Hefner provides a unique glimpse into the film’s history and its lasting impact on viewers. As fans continue to cherish this beloved holiday classic, Billingsley’s behind-the-scenes insights add a new layer of appreciation for the enduring magic of the movie.