Let’s talk about Griffin Dunne, the man who never intended to become an actor. Born into Hollywood royalty, Griffin, now 69, had his sights set on journalism, inspired by his legendary aunt and uncle, Joan Didion and John Gregory Dunne. “I thought I’d grow up to be this gonzo journalist, like Hunter S. Thompson,” Griffin tells us exclusively. But fate had other plans. Performing in a high school play changed his life. The rush of being on stage hooked him instantly, leading to a career that includes unforgettable roles like the lead in 1981’s An American Werewolf in London, the cult classic After Hours, and his beloved portrayal of Nicky Pearson in This Is Us. Today, Griffin is as busy as ever. He’s starring in Ex-Husbands, a new dramatic comedy in theaters now, where he plays a complex character that he hopes will pave the way for more stories about men his age—stories that are funny, honest, and relatable. He’s also working on an Amazon series based on his father Dominick Dunne’s Vanity Fair articles and stars in Caught Stealing, set to release next August.
Did Hollywood Always Feel Like Destiny?
Not at all. In fact, Griffin was pretty resistant to the idea of Hollywood as a teenager. “I wanted nothing to do with movies or celebrities. I was dead-set against it,” he admits. But then, something unexpected happened—he auditioned for a high school play. And just like that, his resistance melted away, and he fell in love with the craft of acting.
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What Was Griffin’s Big Break?
It came when he landed the role in the 1981 film An American Werewolf in London. At the time, Griffin was still green in the industry. He’d done a little theater and maybe a small part in a movie, but this was a game-changer. “It was surreal. One day, I was doing tiny parts, and the next, I was flying to London on the Concorde, working with directors I admired. It was mind-blowing,” he recalls.
Which Roles Still Define Griffin Today?
Ask anyone on the street, and they’ll probably mention After Hours or This Is Us. These roles have become a big part of Griffin’s legacy. After Hours, a black comedy set in 1980s New York, has since become a cult classic. It’s a film that perfectly captures the city’s gritty charm.
Did He Know After Hours Would Be Special?
Griffin thought it would be a huge hit right away, but sometimes, the best things take time. “When it first came out, it didn’t do as well as I expected in America. But years later, people started to embrace it, and it got the love it deserved. It just took audiences a little while to catch up,” he says with a smile.
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What Was It Like Working with Madonna?
In the 1980s, Griffin starred alongside Madonna in Who’s That Girl. “Working with her was a blast. She was at the top of her game, and let me tell you, the paparazzi were everywhere. Helicopters were hovering above us like we were O.J. Simpson in the Bronco. But Madonna handled it all with grace. I don’t think I could’ve done it as well as she did,” he says with admiration.
What Made Playing Nicky Pearson So Special?
Griffin’s role as Nicky Pearson in This Is Us was a dream come true. “Starting off as a diabetic, alcoholic, suicidal man living in a trailer, and transforming into a sober, loving family member—it was such a rich arc. It was a journey that was beautifully written, and it was a joy to play,” he explains.
Who Are Some of Griffin’s Favorite Costars?
In his latest film, Ex-Husbands, Griffin reunites with longtime friend and co-star Rosanna Arquette. “Rosanna and I have known each other for decades. We first met in Poland when we played siblings in a TV movie. Since then, we’ve done several projects together. Playing a divorcing couple felt natural—it’s like we’ve lived a lifetime together,” he says.
What Advice Does Griffin Have for His Actress Daughter, Hannah?
Griffin encourages Hannah to soak up as many life experiences as possible before settling into her career. “Be open to opportunities, and don’t be afraid to say yes. The more you explore, the more you’ll grow as an artist,” he advises.
What Did Griffin Learn from His Writing Family?
Griffin’s family of writers left a lasting impression on him. “They were brutally honest about themselves and the world around them. They weren’t afraid to call out hypocrisy or injustice. Their personal experiences were at the heart of their work, and that’s something I’ve always admired,” he reflects.
What Did He Want Readers to Take Away from His Story?
Griffin’s story is one of resilience and humor. “Even though I’ve faced some really tough times, I wanted readers to see that life doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. There’s always room for laughter and moving forward. Writing it all down was cathartic,” he says.
Will There Be a Sequel?
While Griffin doesn’t plan a direct sequel, he’s eager to write something new that’s rooted in the personal but fictionalized. “I love weaving real-life experiences into fiction—it’s a great way to tell a story,” he shares.
How Does Griffin Spend His Free Time?
When he’s not on set, Griffin enjoys a quieter life. He plays tennis, spends time at his upstate New York home, and tends to his animals—goats, chickens, and even ostriches. “People are always surprised to hear about the ostriches, but it’s where I feel most relaxed. It’s a far cry from the urban life people associate with me,” he laughs.
