Ernie Hudson recalls the steadfast support he received from Bill Murray. During a solo panel at Rhode Island Comic Con on November 2, Hudson, 78, reflected on a pivotal moment when Murray, 74, defended him during their early days on Ghostbusters.
“In all my years of working with actors, Bill Murray is the only one who stood firm about his involvement in the film. When discussions arose about making another Ghostbusters, which was about 20 years after our last one, Bill simply said, ‘If Ernie Hudson’s not in it, I’m not doing it,'” Hudson shared.
Ernie Hudson praises Bill Murray for unwavering support during Ghostbusters
“It’s rare to find someone who will genuinely stand up for you, and that meant a lot to me. I appreciate all the guys; their support has been incredible.” Hudson went on to praise his co-stars, including Murray, Harold Ramis, and Dan Aykroyd, for their “willingness to be inclusive” while on set, especially when the studio was not as welcoming. “Before I joined Ghostbusters, I had been acting for many years, but the studio wasn’t particularly friendly.
However, the guys were always supportive,” he reminisced. “During scenes, they would say, ‘Wait a minute, Ernie’s not saying anything. Let’s ensure he’s included.’ Many lines that could have gone to others were graciously given to me instead.”
He also noted, “The studio actively worked to exclude me from various aspects, including promotional materials and posters. Yet, my co-stars were incredibly inclusive, and that’s why I hold them in such high regard.” As of now, representatives from Columbia Pictures have not provided a comment in response to PEOPLE’s inquiry.
Hudson has portrayed Winston Zeddemore in all four films of the Ghostbusters franchise, starting with the original release in 1984. He even made a cameo in the 2016 female-led reboot. Among the original main cast, Ramis was the only one not to appear in all four films, having passed away in February 2014 at the age of 69.
In previous interviews, Hudson has expressed fond memories of his time working on the franchise. In a 2014 conversation with Entertainment Weekly, he shared some of his favorite experiences. “For me, filming in New York was a highlight.
I enjoyed hanging out with Bill Murray whenever we had the chance, and witnessing the fans’ adoration for him was remarkable,” he recalled. He continued, “The love they had for him was incredible, and I observed how he interacted with the crowd. He effortlessly waded into the audience, reciprocating their affection.”
Hudson concluded, “Many actors shy away from such attention, but Bill embraced it, becoming one with the fans. It was a beautiful sight. I recently saw him, and he still possesses that unique ability to include people in a special way. That’s the lasting impression I carry with me: watching him connect with his fans and how he engages with them.”
