George Clooney Praises Adam Sandler on “Jay Kelly” Set: “He’s One of the Most Talented People I Know”
George Clooney is having none of it. Wait. What? On the set of his new film, “Jay Kelly,” Clooney laid down the law: nobody was allowed to call costar Adam Sandler “Sandman.” When you think of Adam Sandler, you probably picture him in oversized shorts, maybe with a golf club, making goofy voices, or getting into some ridiculous shenanigans with his buddies. He’s the “Sandman,” the king of silly comedies that, for better or worse, have defined a whole generation of humor.
George Clooney Picked Up on Adam Sandler’s Immense Talent
It might sound like a diva move from Hollywood royalty, but Clooney’s intentions were pure gold. He wasn’t just being a stickler; he was trying to protect a performance he knew would blow people away. Clooney saw what many critics have been saying for years, especially after seeing Sandler in films like “Uncut Gems” and “Hustle”—the guy isn’t just a comedian; he’s a phenomenal actor.
“You get treated the way you treat yourself,” Clooney explained. He noticed Sandler’s habit of deflecting compliments with a joke, hiding his immense talent behind the “Sandman” persona. Clooney decided to create an environment where that talent couldn’t hide. “I was like, ‘You know what, dude, you’re really good in this film and you’re a really good actor and let’s not just make jokes.’”
George Clooney Wants You to Take Adam Sandler Seriously
In “Jay Kelly,” George Clooney stars as the title character, an aging actor traveling through Europe with his manager, Ron, played by Adam Sandler. It’s a journey of self-discovery where both men have to face their life choices and legacies. Think less “Grown Ups” and more soul-searching drama, all with Noah Baumbach’s signature witty and poignant dialogue.
The film boasts a killer ensemble cast, including Laura Dern, Billy Crudup, and even Greta Gerwig as Sandler’s on-screen wife. Stacy Keach portrays Clooney’s character’s father. Isla Fisher and Patrick Wilson round out the cast.
Clooney knew that for Sandler to deliver the powerful, emotional performance required for Ron, the set needed a different vibe. He wanted the entire cast and crew to see Sandler not as a funny guy who makes millions from “big goofy comedies,” but as the serious, talented actor he truly is. Clooney told Vanity Fair:
“I kept telling the cast, ‘Don’t call him Sandman. Don’t talk to him like he’s just some goofy comedian,’ This film, more than any film Adam has done, shows what a beautiful, heartfelt, soulful actor he is.”
Is This Adam Sandler’s Oscar-Worthy Moment?
This isn’t the first time Sandler has dipped his toes into dramatic waters. His turn as a gambling-addicted jeweler in “Uncut Gems” displayed his adept ability to portray Howard Ratner. It was anxiety-inducing acting that had many yelling “Oscar snub!” from the rooftops.
Clooney’s move to protect Sandler’s performance on the “Jay Kelly” set feels like a deliberate attempt to make sure lightning doesn’t strike twice. He’s clearing the path, shining a spotlight, and telling the world—and Sandler himself—to recognize the depth of his talent.
Sandler Takes It in Stride
Sandler, for his part, seemed to take it in stride, admitting that while no one could really stop him from calling himself “Sandman,” he appreciated Clooney’s kindness and support. It’s a sweet, slightly hilarious dynamic between two Hollywood giants from different worlds, united by a project they both clearly believe in.
With “Jay Kelly” set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival before hitting theaters and Netflix later this year, the buzz is already building. Will this finally be the role that earns Adam Sandler the critical gold statuette he deserves? If George Clooney has anything to say about it, you can bet on it. Just don’t call him “Sandman” when he’s accepting the award.
