# In 1978, John Wayne was “livid” at being offered a role in a comedy movie. He died 26 days after it finished shooting

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/in-1978-john-wayne-was-livid-at-being-offered-a-role-in-a-comedy-movie-he-died-26-days-after-it-finished-shooting/
- Published: 2026-11-06T17:15:00+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-06T17:22:17+00:00
- Original publisher: Far Out
- Original article: https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/john-wayne-livid-at-being-offered-role-in-comedy-movie/

## Key points

- Wayne rejected a role in Spielberg’s comedy *1941*.
- He reportedly called the screenplay “anti-American”.
- He died 26 days after filming finished.

## Summary

John Wayne turned down a role in Steven Spielberg’s comedy *1941* after reading the screenplay, calling it “anti-American”. The film’s satirical treatment of wartime America clashed with Wayne’s public image and patriotic convictions, and he reportedly objected to the idea of the film itself.

Co-writer Bob Gale recalled that Wayne was furious when Spielberg offered him a part; Robert Stack was later suggested for the role. Filming wrapped on 16 May 1979, and Wayne died on 11 June, 26 days later. *1941* was released in December that year, several months after his death.

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