Let’s talk about Jack Nicholson, one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures. Sure, he’s not exactly the type to cozy up to everyone, but there’s one person he holds in exceptionally high regard: Mary Steenburgen. And guess what? The feeling is mutual, according to an insider who spoke exclusively to Closer. This friendship is a beautiful reminder that even the most private legends can form deep, meaningful connections.
Here’s the scoop: Jack, now 87, still reminisces about the day he first met Mary in a casting office many decades ago. He was completely blown away by her talent. “He still talks about it,” the source shares. “It left a lasting impression on him, and he’s never forgotten her brilliance.”
A Friendship That Stands the Test of Time
Now, here’s the kicker—Jack and Mary, despite never having a romantic relationship, have cultivated a friendship that’s blossomed over the years. Even today, they remain close. “Their bond has only grown stronger,” the insider reveals. “It’s a testament to the respect and admiration they have for each other.”
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It all started back in 1978 when they starred together in the Western comedy Goin’ South. This marked Mary’s feature film debut, and Jack played a convict whose life was saved thanks to Mary’s character offering him a job searching for gold on her land. Spoiler alert: They fell in love. Classic Hollywood stuff, right?
Jack not only directed Goin’ South, but he also gave Mary her big break. She credits him for everything that followed in her career. “I owe every single thing to him,” Mary said on her husband Ted Danson’s podcast “Where Everybody Knows Your Name.” She recounted how Jack had to fight for her against Paramount, who initially wanted to go with more established stars. “But Jack stood his ground. He said, ‘Then we don’t do the movie.’ And that’s how much he believed in me,” Mary recalled. “He was my mentor, and I’ll forever be grateful.”
Jack’s Life After Acting
Since retiring from acting in 2010 after starring in How Do You Know, Jack has mostly kept to himself. But don’t think he’s completely cut off from the world. There’s a select group of people he lets into his life, and Mary is definitely one of them. “They still talk and reminisce about their old Hollywood days,” the insider adds. “Mary thinks Jack is one of the most talented individuals Hollywood has ever seen, and she can’t stop praising him for what he did for her career.”
Another person who remains close to Jack is his former girlfriend, Lara Flynn Boyle. They dated from 1999 to 2001, and despite their relationship being a bit wild, they still share fond memories. “She cherishes those times and holds no grudges,” another insider revealed. “Jack doesn’t get out much anymore, but when he does, it’s usually for something special.”
Jack’s Last Public Appearance
One thing that managed to pull Jack out of his reclusive lifestyle was watching his beloved Los Angeles Lakers play the Denver Nuggets in the NBA Western Conference finals in May 2023. He attended the game courtside with his son, Ray, in what turned out to be his last public appearance. It just goes to show that even legends have their passions.
