Controversy Surrounds Reshoot of *Fatal Attraction* Ending
Glenn Close reflects on the intense negotiations surrounding the reshoot of *Fatal Attraction*, which occurred six months after the film wrapped production. Initially resistant to the changes, Close found herself at odds with her team regarding the character’s evolution.
“I fought it for two weeks,” Close remarked in an interview with the New York Times. “The new ending would transform a character I cherished into a cold-blooded murderer.” In a heated meeting involving principal cast and crew members, she confronted co-star Michael Douglas, asking, “How would you feel if it were your character?” Douglas responded candidly, stating, “Babe, I’m a whore,” indicating his willingness to comply with studio demands.
Despite Close’s strong objections, she was not alone in her resistance. Director Adrian Lyne expressed his discontent as well, labeling the proposed changes as capitulating to the “lowest common denominator,” a sentiment supported by producer Sherry Lansing. Ultimately, the filmmakers were presented with an offer of $1.5 million to proceed with the reshoot, along with assurance that they could opt not to use the outcome if it did not meet their standards.
Actress Anne Archer, who portrayed Beth in the film, also preferred the original ending. “I burst into tears,” she shared with journalist Galloway, emphasizing the emotional investment she had in her performance. “My entire life, career, and heart were bared onscreen.”
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