John Turturro has reminisced about a humorous prank he played on legendary director Robert Redford during their collaboration on the 1994 film *Quiz Show*. In a recent podcast interview, Turturro detailed how he intertwined Meryl Streep into the joke, leveraging her reputation and his own wittiness to evoke a memorable response from Redford.
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The actor, now 69 years old, recounted his experience on the Scene Stealers podcast, hosted by John Feitelberg, noting his admiration for Redford. Turturro, who had never personally met Streep at the time, uncovered an article in *PEOPLE* magazine discussing various leading men and their kissing skills. This piqued Turturro’s imagination, and he decided to incorporate this morsel of information into his playful encounter with the acclaimed director.
As Turturro described the scene, he was in the midst of filming when he approached Redford with the fabricated nugget of praise from Streep. “I had never met Meryl Streep, but I read in *PEOPLE* magazine that they talked about all the leading men and who was the best kisser,” he explained. The conversation unfolded during a light moment on set when Redford, known for his affable nature, had his arm around Turturro.
Turturro recalled how Redford’s excitement about Streep’s supposed endorsement was palpable. As he teased the director, Redford’s mannerisms became increasingly animated. “Whenever he got excited, he always grabbed his pecs,” Turturro shared, illustrating the lighthearted bond they shared. He seized the opportunity to enhance the joke, claiming that Streep had declared Redford to be the best kisser she had ever worked with.
The playful ruse sent Redford into a flurry of delight. “He lit up like a little kid,” Turturro said, adding that the director eagerly engaged with the comment, eagerly asking for further details. Turturro’s ability to capture the moment, where he felt he had “him in the palm of my hand,” showcased the sharp humour and bond that had developed between them during the filming process.
Subsequent retrospections by Streep, particularly regarding her scenes with Redford in the acclaimed film *Out of Africa*, paint a vivid picture of their on-screen chemistry. At the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, Streep reflected on one such intimate sequence, describing it as a “sex scene in a way, because it’s so intimate.” She recalled the connection felt during the filming, which left her enamoured with Redford by the fifth take.
Tragically, Redford’s passing in September 2025 brought an end to an era of classic Hollywood. The actor and filmmaker, revered for his roles in iconic films such as *Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid*, died at the age of 89 at his cherished home in Utah. His representative, Cindi Berger, released a heartfelt statement, revealing Redford’s desire to be surrounded by loved ones in his final moments.
In the wake of his death, Streep shared a moving tribute to her late co-star. She referred to him as “one of the lions” of Hollywood, expressing her grief over the loss of a dear friend. Her sentiments resonated with many, highlighting the profound impact Redford had not only in cinema but in the hearts of those who knew him personally.
John Turturro’s anecdote from the set of *Quiz Show* serves as a testament to the camaraderie and humour that can flourish within the film industry. It reveals how light-hearted moments can create lasting memories, even amidst the serious nature of filmmaking. As fans and colleagues continue to remember Redford, his legacy as a beloved actor and director remains intact, cherished by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.