John Ratzenberger Recalls Working with James Cagney on “Ragtime”, the Late Actor’s Final Film

**John Ratzenberger Reflects on His Career and a Memorable Collaboration with James Cagney**

In a heartfelt recent interview, actor John Ratzenberger recounted his early career and the significant impact of the film *Ragtime*, released in 1981. The film not only marked an important milestone in his career but also represented the final cinematic appearances of two legendary actors, James Cagney and Pat O’Brien. As the film approaches its landmark anniversary, Ratzenberger, now 79, shared his reminiscences during an episode of *Nostalgia Tonight with Joe Sibilia*.

Ratzenberger, widely recognised for his portrayal of Cliff Clavin in the beloved sitcom *Cheers*, described his role in *Ragtime* as a formative experience. Playing a policeman, the actor found himself face to face with Cagney, who took on the iconic role of Commissioner Rhinelander Waldo. The encounter left a lasting impression on the young performer. “I was in awe,” Ratzenberger recalled, citing his admiration for Cagney’s performances in classic films such as *White Heat* and *Yankee Doodle Dandy*.

An important moment, according to Ratzenberger, was Cagney’s entrance onto the film set. “When [Cagney] first arrived on set, he arrived in a limo. As soon as he stuck his head out, the place erupted with cheers,” he recounted. The enthusiasm of the crew highlighted Cagney’s immense legacy to cinema and provided Ratzenberger with an unforgettable experience early in his career.

Cagney’s passing on March 30, 1986, marked the end of an era for many in Hollywood. Having experienced a heart attack, the celebrated actor left behind an illustrious legacy spanning over 70 films. The tribute to Cagney at his funeral, delivered by President Ronald Reagan, underscored the profound respect he garnered throughout his career.

*Ragtime* holds a notable spot in Ratzenberger’s filmography, as it was one of his earliest cinematic roles. In the lead-up to this poignant project, he had appeared in a number of films, including *Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back*, and made brief appearances in *Superman*, *The Ritz*, and *A Bridge Too Far*. It was only a year later that he achieved fame playing the charismatic postman, Cliff, on *Cheers*, a role that would define his career for decades.

Following his success on television, Ratzenberger transitioned into voice acting, becoming a staple character voice for Pixar. His unique talent has brought life to various characters in animated hits like *Toy Story*, *The Incredibles*, *Wall-E*, and *Cars*. This move not only showcased his versatility as an actor but also established him as a significant figure in family-friendly cinema.

Recently, Ratzenberger returned to the beloved franchise with *Toy Story 5*, where he once again lends his voice to Ham, the animated piggy bank. Discussing the experience, he noted, “The process hasn’t changed a bit. You go into a booth or whatever they have and you say your lines and you go home.” His sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the craft was palpable as he reflected on returning to the character.

Ratzenberger expressed his admiration for Pixar’s enduring commitment to storytelling and artistry. He stated, “John Lasseter, who started Pixar, his thumbprint is still there; they pay attention to the story, and I can’t get over the artistry of it all. When you look at a frame of a Pixar film, you could take that frame and hang it on your wall. It’s truly a work of art.”

Currently, *Toy Story 5* is being screened in cinemas across the UK, allowing audiences to reconnect with familiar characters from the franchise. Ratzenberger’s ongoing involvement in the series not only highlights his longevity in the industry but also underscores the film’s cultural relevance across generations.

As he revisits past collaborations and continually engages with new projects, Ratzenberger’s journey offers a reminder of the timeless power of storytelling in film, encapsulating the magic of memories and the bond between actors and their audiences.