Lily Tomlin, beloved actress and comedian, recently shared insights into her relationships with her former co-stars and discussed the possibility of a reunion for the iconic film *9 to 5*. The conversation took place during the premiere of the documentary *Sock It to Me: The Legend of George Schlatter* in Hollywood, California.
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When asked about a potential collaboration with fellow *9 to 5* stars Jane Fonda and Dolly Parton, Tomlin expressed her doubts. “I don’t think we’re going to break the back of that one,” she remarked, casting a shadow over any hopes fans might have for a reunion. The original *9 to 5*, released in 1980, was a significant cultural phenomenon, starring Tomlin, Fonda, and Parton as three women who seek to get back at their sexist boss, played by the late Dabney Coleman. The film’s impact has endured over the years, inspiring a stage musical and a brief television series.
Despite the lack of plans for a film reunion, Tomlin confirmed that she and Fonda have maintained a strong friendship. “I talk to Jane all the time,” she said, highlighting their ongoing connection. In addition to their collaboration on *9 to 5*, the duo starred together in the Netflix series *Grace and Frankie*, which ran for seven seasons, further solidifying their bond.
In a more playful tone, Tomlin acknowledged the challenges of reaching Dolly Parton, saying, “But Dolly, you have to call her secretary. She’s hard to reach. Plus, she’s off there in Nashville.” This adds a hint of humour to her commentary on maintaining friendships amidst busy schedules and geographical distances.
A pioneer in the comedy world, Tomlin originally gained popularity through the groundbreaking television series *Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In*. Reflecting on her past, she shared that she still stays in touch with several iconic co-stars from the show, such as Goldie Hawn and Jo Anne Worley. “I see Goldie at events and everything. But Jo Anne — we go to lunch with the ladies, which is kind of a Hollywood celebrity kind of thing,” Tomlin noted, revealing that their group gathers once a month.
In the same exclusive interview, Tomlin also revealed her admiration for contemporary comedic talent. She expressed her appreciation for Jean Smart, especially for her performance in the series *Hacks*. “She’s a very good actress,” Tomlin commented. She also shared her fondness for Lisa Kudrow, praising her work in *The Comeback*.
As the laughter fades and nostalgia sets in, it’s clear that the bonds formed through shared experiences in the entertainment industry continue to hold great significance for Tomlin. While there might not be a *9 to 5* reunion in the works, the enduring friendships and mutual respect between these trailblazing women remain a notable facet of Tomlin’s life.
As the world of entertainment evolves and new talents emerge, Tomlin’s legacy and her insights into the dynamics of friendships in Hollywood serve as an important reminder of the community that exists behind the scenes. Her candid thoughts about her relationships with both past and present colleagues provide a valuable glimpse into the human connections that fuel creativity in the industry.