In a recent interview on ‘Watch What Happens Live’, Bill Murray shared some intriguing insights about his long-time friendship with actor Bruce Willis. Murray, known for his iconic roles in films like “Ghostbusters” and “Lost in Translation”, revealed that Willis actually started out working behind the scenes at NBC as a page during Murray’s time on ‘Saturday Night Live’ (SNL) between 1977 and 1980. This revelation sheds light on Willis’s humble beginnings before he rose to fame as an actor.
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Murray shared that Willis’ job as a page at NBC involved tasks like refilling the M&Ms and pretzels in the actors’ dressing rooms. Despite his menial role at the time, Willis left an impression on Murray. The two actors eventually worked together on the 2012 film “Moonrise Kingdom”, which Murray described as a “really beautiful, lovely film” during the interview. This collaboration marked a special moment in their friendship, showcasing their bond that transcended their early days at SNL.
Reflecting on their interactions, Murray recalled a moment when Willis expressed gratitude towards him and fellow SNL cast member Gilda Radner for being kind to him. This gesture stuck with Murray and solidified his positive opinion of Willis. The camaraderie and mutual respect between the two actors extended beyond their work on SNL, leading to a lasting friendship that spanned decades in the entertainment industry.
Despite their different career trajectories, with Murray becoming a beloved Hollywood star and Willis achieving fame through roles like “Die Hard” and “Moonlighting”, the two actors maintained a close friendship. Murray praised Willis as a “good guy” and emphasized the genuine connection they shared, both on and off-screen. Their bond and shared experiences in the entertainment industry added depth to their relationship, showcasing the power of enduring friendships in the spotlight.
Since their time at SNL, both actors have pursued successful careers in film and television, with Willis celebrating his 70th birthday in March 2025. While Willis has faced health challenges in recent years, including an aphasia diagnosis and later frontotemporal dementia, his wife Emma Heming Willis has been by his side, providing support and updates to fans. Despite stepping back from acting, Willis’s legacy in Hollywood endures through his iconic roles and his impact on colleagues like Murray.
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, the enduring friendship between Bill Murray and Bruce Willis serves as a reminder of the lasting connections forged in the spotlight. Their shared experiences at SNL and beyond have created a bond that withstands the test of time, highlighting the importance of camaraderie in the often tumultuous world of show business. Murray’s heartfelt reminiscence of his early encounters with Willis paints a picture of mutual respect and admiration, showcasing the depth of their friendship that transcends decades in the fast-paced world of Hollywood.