In August 2023, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the beloved film Freaky Friday, we had the opportunity to sit down with Chad Michael Murray, who played the iconic character Jake. With the release of the highly anticipated sequel, Freakier Friday, fans are once again reminded of why Jake became a heartthrob for many young viewers in the early 2000s. His character, an alt-rocking teen who rides a Ducati and embraces a laid-back yet charming demeanor, captured the hearts of millions, especially Anna Coleman (played by Lindsay Lohan) in the original film.
As we delve into the reasons why Freaky Friday remains a millennial classic, it's impossible to overlook the chemistry between Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis, who portrayed Anna's uptight mother, Tess. Their magical body swap and the ensuing chaos of adapting to each other's lives made the film memorable. Murray's portrayal of Jake provided an added layer of charm, with a character that was uniquely crafted for the 2003 adaptation, not found in the original 1972 book or the earlier film versions.
Murray described Jake as having a "swagger," being nonchalant yet sincere about his feelings. "He wasn’t full of anything other than ‘This is who I am, this is what you get,’" Murray recalled, reflecting on the authenticity that made Jake relatable. Despite the comedic premise of the film, Jake remained oblivious to the body swap, making his reactions to Anna's behavior all the more humorous and endearing. The scenes where he connects with the "cool mom" version of Anna are particularly memorable, as they highlight his genuine nature amidst the chaos.
Murray's journey to landing the role of Jake began with a typical audition process, where he showcased his chemistry with Lohan in front of director Mark Waters. "I went through the casting process and had fun with it," he said, noting the excitement of the opportunity. Reflecting on the casting choices, he mentioned that at one point, Annette Bening and Kelly Osbourne were originally considered for roles, but ultimately, it was Lohan who shone alongside Curtis and Murray.
While reflecting on his time on set, Murray shared anecdotes that highlight the camaraderie among the cast. He humorously recalled his nervousness during his first scene with Jamie Lee Curtis, who played Tess. "It wasn’t uncomfortable flirting with Jamie; it was just nerve-wracking," he admitted, emphasizing the pressure of performing alongside a seasoned actress. The atmosphere on set was lively and youthful, as the young actors collaborated to bring the film to life.
One of the most memorable scenes in Freaky Friday features Murray's character Jake serenading Anna with a rendition of Britney Spears' "...Baby One More Time." This scene was not originally scripted, but Waters envisioned a moment reminiscent of the classic film Say Anything. "I told him I can’t sing, and he said, ‘Even better!’" Murray recalled, adding that the late-night filming created some amusing challenges for the neighborhood residents.
Despite being only 19 during filming, Murray was initially unaware of the film's profound impact until he later read articles confirming its success. Freaky Friday became a box office hit, solidifying its place in Disney's legacy alongside other successful films like Pirates of the Caribbean and Finding Nemo. Even years later, Murray noted that fans still approach him about his role as Jake, further illustrating the character's lasting influence.
With the announcement of the sequel, Freakier Friday, Murray expressed his enthusiasm about potentially reprising his role. "It would be awesome to come back and have Jake re-enter the world of mayhem," he shared, imagining a dynamic where Jamie or Lindsay could take on new roles in their characters' evolving lives.
As we celebrate the legacy of Freaky Friday and eagerly anticipate the sequel, it’s clear that Chad Michael Murray's portrayal of Jake will forever hold a special place in the hearts of fans. With his charm, humor, and genuine nature, Jake remains an unforgettable character that continues to resonate with audiences.
