Andrew McCarthy, renowned for his roles in iconic 1980s films, recently chatted with PEOPLE ahead of his forthcoming book, *Who Needs Friends: An Unscientific Examination of Male Friendship Across America*. The actor and author is perhaps best known for his part in the cult classic *Weekend at Bernie’s*, but it seems his family has not been particularly enamoured with his cinematic legacy.
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Although McCarthy’s son, Sam, viewed *Weekend at Bernie’s* years ago, the experience was somewhat mixed. The actor recounts that when Sam was around 15, he offered a candid critique of the film, declaring it “the stupidest movie I’ve ever seen.” McCarthy found humour in this reaction, explaining to his son, “Well, that’s the point, Sammy.”
The sentiment appears to be shared by his daughter, who, following some persuasion from her friends, contemplated watching another of McCarthy’s notable films, *Pretty in Pink*. However, after catching a glimpse of her father sharing a kiss with co-star Molly Ringwald in the trailer, she decided against it, expressing, “I don’t wanna see that.” McCarthy acknowledged the appropriateness of her reaction, remarking, “That’s absolutely the appropriate reaction.”
The genesis of McCarthy’s latest book traces back to a casual comment from Sam, who jocularly remarked, “You don’t really have any friends, do you, Dad?” This light-hearted inquiry piqued McCarthy’s curiosity about the nature of male friendships, prompting him to embark on a journey across America to explore the dynamics of male relationships in depth.
In the process of writing *Who Needs Friends*, McCarthy travelled over 10,000 miles, journeying through regions such as Appalachia, the Mississippi Delta, the Chihuahuan Desert, and the Rocky Mountains. He sought to reconnect with friends and examine the ways in which companionship evolves over time, particularly among men.
In a conversation with PEOPLE, McCarthy reflected on the vulnerability that comes with writing. He noted that his children have occasionally asked him personal questions, suggesting that to truly understand him, they would need to read his books. “It’s very liberating… That’s what you’re after when you’re writing, right?” he mused, emphasising the profound connection that can form between a writer and their audience.
McCarthy’s extensive body of work includes not only acting but also writing, having authored several memoirs and travelogues that have garnered attention, including the *New York Times* bestseller, *Brat: An ’80s Story*, and *Walking with Sam* in 2022. His experiences and insights have resonated with many readers, reflecting shared emotions and experiences, despite differing circumstances.
As the release date for *Who Needs Friends* approaches on March 24, 2026, McCarthy hopes to shed light on the unique aspects of male friendships and the sometimes complicated emotional landscape that surrounds them. The journey has clearly been a formative one for McCarthy, who suggests that through literature, one can reveal themselves in a manner that may not be possible in everyday interactions.
In an age where emotional expressions among men can often be stifled, McCarthy’s exploration may offer a refreshing perspective on the importance of these connections. His forthcoming work promises to engage readers with a thoughtful examination of male friendship, a topic that remains pertinent in today’s society.
This book, along with McCarthy’s previous works, highlights the multifaceted nature of his life and career, revealing the man behind the film roles—a father, a friend, and a reflective writer seeking to understand the bonds that shape our experiences.