Key Points

Quentin Tarantino hosted a private memorial for Michael Madsen at his Vista Theatre. He shared a pivotal moment from Reservoir Dogs where he fired Lawrence Tierney for disruptive behavior. Madsen later left Tarantino a heartfelt voicemail supporting his decision as a director. The tribute honored Madsen's legacy as both an actor and a loyal collaborator.

Key Points: Quentin Tarantino Honors Michael Madsen at Reservoir Dogs Memorial

  • Tarantino fired volatile actor Lawrence Tierney during Reservoir Dogs shoot
  • Madsen supported Tarantino after the controversial decision
  • Tierney's behavior caused tension among cast and crew
  • Madsen's passing marks the loss of a Tarantino film legend
2 min read

Quentin Tarantino pays tribute to Michael Madsen, recalls working with him in 'Reservoir Dogs'

Tarantino recalls firing Lawrence Tierney and earning Madsen's respect during Reservoir Dogs shoot in heartfelt tribute.

"I respected what you did tonight... as a director, as a captain, and as a man. – Michael Madsen"

Washington DC, August 3

Filmmaker and actor Quentin Tarantino paid tribute to late star Michael Madsen. He hosted a private memorial for Madsen at the filmmaker's Vista Theatre, where he recounted earning Madsen's respect on the set of their 1992 film 'Reservoir Dogs' after firing co-star Lawrence Tierney in the first week, reported Deadline.

"It was the last hour of the last day of the first week of shooting. So, I had never directed a movie before," Tarantino noted on stage in a video, adding, "And Lawrence Tierney was a nightmare. He was completely insane. He was so crazy, and I'd never directed before, so I'm dealing with a crazy man Monday through Saturday."

Tarantino shared, "All the other actors and the crew can't stand him. And all of a sudden, he yells at me, does something disrespectful." Acting out the rant, he continued, "And so, I fired him at the breakfast table. The crew breaks into applause," reported Deadline.

"I thought I just spent a week shooting this guy. Now I just fired him," the writer, director and co-star said. "Live Entertainment is gonna fire me. That's it for my career. It was nice while it lasted. But I had to do it, I had to stand up for myself."

But Tarantino had support from Madsen, who left a message on his answering machine that night. "He said, 'Yea, Quentin, it's Michael," recalled Tarantino, saying, "'Just calling to say that I respected what you did tonight. It was important, and needed to be done. He was busting your balls, and you had to do it. And I want you to know that I respect it, as a director, I respect it as a captain, and I respect it as a man. So, I'm on your side, buddy. Thanks'," reported Deadline.

Actor Michael Madsen, who is known for his roles in Quentin Tarantino films including 'Kill Bill: Vol. 1 & 2' and 'Reservoir Dogs', passed away on July 3 at the age of 67.

Madsen was found unresponsive in his Malibu home, according to his representative, who said the cause appeared to be a cardiac arrest.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Interesting to hear these behind-the-scenes stories! As someone who works in the Indian film industry, I can relate to the challenges of handling difficult actors. Tarantino showed real guts standing up like that in his first film.
A
Aman W
Madsen's Mr. Blonde was iconic! That ear-cutting scene still haunts me. But I wish the article had more about his other works beyond Tarantino films. He had such a distinctive screen presence.
S
Sarah B
As an American living in Mumbai, I find it fascinating how Tarantino's films have such a huge fan following here in India too. This tribute shows why - it's all about the human connections behind the camera.
K
Karthik V
Respect to Tarantino for sharing this vulnerable moment from his early career. It's a good lesson for young filmmakers everywhere - sometimes you have to take tough decisions to earn respect.
N
Nisha Z
Heartwarming to read about Madsen's support. In our Bollywood industry too, such gestures mean the world to newcomers. Shows the importance of mentorship in creative fields. ❤️

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50