Adam Sandler’s generosity is often celebrated, especially when it comes to gifts for his co-stars. However, his relationship with actor Henry Winkler took a humorous turn during the filming of the 1998 sports comedy The Waterboy. Winkler shared an amusing story on the Let’s Talk Off Camera with Kelly Ripa podcast, revealing a late-night call from Sandler that led to a comical exchange.
A Late-Night Favor Request from Sandler
During his appearance on Ripa’s podcast, Winkler recounted the moment Sandler reached out for a “favor.” The call came at an ungodly hour, approximately 11:30 PM. “He [Sandler] called me up in the middle of the night and said, ‘Henry, I need a favor. My actor didn’t show up. I need you to drive right now to the park in LA,'” Winkler explained.
Despite the late hour, Winkler agreed to help. After shaving and driving to the park, he sat in make-up until 3:30 AM. However, the anticipated reward was far from grand. “And do you know what I got? A cookie,” Winkler laughed.
No Maserati for Winkler
Kelly Ripa, surprised by the meager thank you gift, asked Winkler about the Maseratis that Sandler had famously gifted his Grown Ups co-stars. Winkler replied with humor, “I didn’t even get to keep my wardrobe.” The playful exchange highlighted the contrast between Sandler’s extravagant gifts to his other co-stars and Winkler’s unexpected token of appreciation.
Winkler’s Ideal Car Choice
When asked what car he would prefer from Sandler, Winkler didn’t wish for a Maserati. He humorously stated, “I don’t want a Maserati because that would be so low to get into, I would have to sleep in it. I could never get out.” Instead, Winkler opted for a small Lexus SUV, showcasing his practical side and preference for comfort over luxury.
A Lesson in Cigar Smoking
Though Winkler didn’t receive the extravagant gifts Sandler was known for, he did gain something valuable during the filming of The Waterboy. He reminisced about learning to smoke cigars on set, stating, “During the making of Waterboy, I had my first Cuban cigar.” He humorously noted that he now only smokes Cuban cigars when he goes fishing, suggesting a newfound appreciation for the finer things in life, albeit in moderation.
Adam Sandler’s Grand Gifts to ‘Grown Ups’ Co-Stars
Sandler’s lavish gifts to his co-stars in Grown Ups became legendary. After wrapping the film, he surprised David Spade, Kevin James, Chris Rock, and Rob Schneider with Maseratis valued at around $200,000 each. The surprise left many, including Spade, astonished.
In an interview with Kevin Nealon, Spade shared the moment he found out about his Maserati. “Chris Rock called me and he goes, ‘Will you look in your driveway?’ and I go, ‘No.’ He goes, ‘Go out front and call me,'” Spade recounted. After stepping outside, he discovered a brand new car waiting for him. Initially thinking it was a mistake, he learned from Rock that the car was indeed his.
Spade and Rock’s Reactions
Spade later expressed feeling “embarrassed” to drive the Maserati, while Rock joked about the implications of receiving such an extravagant gift. He humorously remarked to Howard Stern, “Now I think that I’m Adam Sandler’s b****.” This light-hearted banter highlights the camaraderie and playful dynamics shared among the cast.
Sandler’s Financial Success in 2023
Despite the humor and light-hearted stories, Adam Sandler has solidified his status as a leading figure in Hollywood. In 2023, he was revealed to be the highest-paid actor, with earnings estimated at $73 million. Much of this income stems from a lucrative deal with Netflix, reportedly worth $250 million, showcasing his ongoing influence and success in the entertainment industry.
FAQ Section
1. Why did Adam Sandler call Henry Winkler?
Adam Sandler called Henry Winkler in the middle of the night to ask for a favor when another actor failed to show up for filming The Waterboy.
2. What gift did Sandler give Winkler after filming?
Henry Winkler humorously shared that the only gift he received from Sandler after filming was a cookie.
3. How did Winkler feel about not receiving a Maserati?
Winkler laughed about not receiving a Maserati, mentioning that he would prefer a more practical vehicle instead.
4. What is Adam Sandler’s estimated earnings in 2023?
In 2023, Adam Sandler was reported to be the highest-paid actor, with earnings estimated at $73 million, primarily from his deal with Netflix.
5. What valuable lesson did Winkler learn from Sandler?
Winkler learned how to smoke cigars while filming The Waterboy, marking a memorable experience from the set.
