Nearly two decades after working with Jack Nicholson on the sets of Scorsese’s Oscar winning crime Drama, The Departed (2006), British actor Ray Winstone has rekindled his long history and rift with Nicholson, calling him "rude" and "up his own a***."
The Quadrophenia star, 68, didn’t hold back in a recent episode of the podcast Things We Like with Eamonn & Paul, where, after some hilarious banter, he was asked directly if he liked Nicholson, to which Winstone responded by saying:
"No. We just didn't get on. I just found him... Listen, he's getting older, and maybe there are a lot of things going on with him.
Ray Winstone also stated that Jack Nicholson was a bit rude towards him and his wife, which almost made Ray Winstone want to punch him.
"He was very rude to me, he was rude to my wife, if he had been a younger man, I'd have definitely knocked him out." He remarked.
Despite his unflattering comments, Winstone reluctantly admitted that Nicholson is an exceptional actor and admitted that the Hollywood legend is "fantastic at what he does." He even gave a backhanded compliment to Nicholson’s writing.
"He's a great writer as well, by all accounts, at least that's what he kept telling us." He added.
But admiration for Nicholson’s artistry did not supersede Winstone’s contempt for the man. Winstone drew comparisons between Nicholson and his own grandfather and said that the latter was a much better man, even though they both were of the same age. Insinuating that the behavior of a person cannot be excused due to their age.
Jack Nicholson's controversial reputation within the entertainment industry
One of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors, Jack Nicholson, has also been one of the most controversial actors. Despite an illustrious career that has surpassed five decades, his reputation outside the frame often outshines his legacy.
According to The List, Nicholson has always been associated with drug-fueled parties, womanizing, and stormy relationships. His erratic conduct wasn't limited to just personal relationships. He had a public feud with the comedian John Belushi and had controversies with several directors, including Miloš Forman.
He was also accused of arrogance by his co-stars. Fellow female colleagues like Geena Davis and Cher have alleged Nicholson’s inappropriate advances and dismissive attitude toward women, and Meryl Streep allegedly faced sexual pursuit over an entire film collaboration.
In the ’90s, Jack Nicholson was sued by a sex worker, who said that he became violent and abusive during an encounter. He was also scrutinized for his friendship with Roman Polanski, who had r *ped a 13 year old girl at Nicholson’s home while he was away, per The List.
Therefore, even though Nicholson had a successful acting career, his private and work life was filled with controversies, leaving behind a complicated legacy.
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