Anaconda’s Paul Rudd Launched Jack Black’s Career Without Him Knowing

Before finally getting the chance to work together on the new Anaconda movie, Avengers: Doomsday star Paul Rudd shared that he has been a long-time fan of Jack Black, after being impressed with his performance in the cult comedy movie Bob Roberts. Unbeknownst to Black, Rudd’s admiration actually helped him land his role in 2000’s romantic dramedy High Fidelity, which served as the movie that launched Black’s career.

How did Paul Rudd help Jack Black land his breakout role?

During a recent interview with Empire, Rudd recalled the moment when he auditioned for the role of Dick in High Fidelity, revealing that during the audition process, he pushed for Black’s casting to director Stephen Frears. Even though Rudd didn’t get the part, Black was able to secure the supporting role of record store employee Barry Judd.

“I said to Stephen Frears, ‘There’s this actor named Jack Black, and he’s the guy that should play this part, because he’s also a musician and he’s really funny,’” Rudd shared. “He was like, ‘What’s his name?’ He wrote it down!” “You launched my career!” Black responded.

The Anaconda reboot is directed by Tom Gormican, who co-wrote the screenplay with Kevin Etten. It is based on the franchise created by Hans Bauer, Jim Cash, and Jack Epps Jr. Joining Rudd and Black are Brazilian actor Selton Mello as Santiago, Thandiwe Newton as Claire Simons, Steve Zahn as Kenny Trent, Daniela Melchior as Ana Almeida, and Ione Skye as Malie McCallister.

The highly anticipated movie is scheduled to arrive in theaters on December 25, 2025.

(Source: Empire)

Source: Comingsoon.net