During the filming of the iconic 1963 film The Great Escape, James Garner and Charles Bronson—two of Hollywood’s brightest stars—found themselves at odds. Their differences were not just about acting styles or creative disagreements but went deeper into their personal values and attitudes.
James Garner, known for his fairness and charm, often stood up for the underdogs on set. Meanwhile, Charles Bronson, with his tough-guy persona, was described by Garner as abrasive and dismissive of others, particularly lesser-known actors. This dynamic created underlying tension between the two.
What Did James Garner Say About Charles Bronson?
In his 2011 memoir The Garner Files, James Garner didn’t mince words. He called Bronson “a pain in the ass” and accused him of being someone who “used and abused people.” Garner was particularly critical of how Bronson treated extras and smaller players on the set, which he felt was disrespectful and against the camaraderie filmmaking required.
Garner’s sense of justice wasn’t just talk. He had a reputation for sticking up for fairness on and off the screen, and Bronson’s behavior clashed with those principles.
How Did a Poker Game Escalate Their Feud?
The animosity between the two stars wasn’t limited to the film set. One notable incident occurred during a poker game at Garner’s home after filming wrapped. Bronson attempted to retract a bet he had made, which Garner vehemently opposed.
For Garner, this wasn’t just about a card game—it was about integrity. This small disagreement quickly escalated into a heated argument, further straining their already fragile relationship. Bronson reportedly left the game feeling insulted, vowing never to work with Garner again.
Did the Feud Affect Their Careers?
While The Great Escape went on to become a cinematic classic, the feud left a lasting impact on the relationship between the two actors. Bronson stayed true to his word and never worked with Garner again. For Garner, the fallout seemed to solidify his resolve to stick to his values, even if it meant creating friction with other Hollywood heavyweights.
Interestingly, Garner also criticized other co-stars in his memoir. He described Steve McQueen as “a poser” and someone who “cultivated the image of a macho man” but lacked genuine acting talent. However, Garner’s critiques of Bronson were arguably the harshest, highlighting the deep personal divide between the two.
What Does This Feud Reveal About Hollywood?
The feud between James Garner and Charles Bronson offers a glimpse into the world behind Hollywood’s glamour. Beneath the polished surface, egos, principles, and clashing personalities often shaped relationships on set. Garner’s stand against Bronson wasn’t just about personal animosity—it was about the values he believed in: fairness, respect, and treating everyone equally, regardless of their status.
In the end, their fallout became a lesser-known but fascinating chapter in Hollywood history, underscoring how personal principles can sometimes clash with professional relationships.
