In a recent revelation, actor Laurence Fishburne shared a poignant memory from the set of the iconic 1979 film Apocalypse Now. In Apple TV+’s new documentary, Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Men in Hollywood, Fishburne recounted how a particular scene left director Francis Ford Coppola feeling “disappointed.” The challenges he faced during filming were significantly influenced by his youth and lack of sexual experience at the time.
Fishburne, who was only 14 or 15 during the filming of Apocalypse Now, found himself struggling with a scene that involved discussions about sex. He candidly admitted, “I had no sexual experience. Like, none.” This lack of personal experience made it difficult for him to deliver the performance that Coppola envisioned. “There’s a scene in Apocalypse Now that got cut from the original film, and then it’s been put back in the redux,” he explained. Despite numerous attempts, including about 40 takes, Fishburne sensed Coppola's frustration. “I could tell that he was disappointed,” he noted, reflecting on how this experience left him feeling “really down, really dejected.”
Even though the experience was challenging, Fishburne found solace in the encouraging words of his co-star, Martin Sheen. He recalled a moment when Sheen whispered in his ear, “Did anyone ever tell you you were a really good actor?” This unexpected compliment lifted Fishburne’s spirits, affirming his talent. “I said, ‘No.’ He said, ‘You’re a really good actor,’” Fishburne recounted. This support from Sheen exemplifies what being “No. 1 on a call sheet” means to Fishburne—providing encouragement and recognition to fellow actors on set.
Apocalypse Now, a film that won two Oscars, tells the gripping story of a U.S. Army officer tasked with assassinating a rogue Special Forces Colonel who has descended into madness during the Vietnam War. While Fishburne’s experience on the film may not be his fondest memory, it did not hinder his relationship with Coppola. Over the years, Fishburne and Coppola have collaborated on several other projects, including Rumble Fish, The Cotton Club, Gardens of Stone, and the upcoming Megalopolis.
The insights shared by Laurence Fishburne in this documentary not only highlight the challenges faced by young actors but also emphasize the importance of mentorship and support in the film industry. As Fishburne continues to thrive in his career, his reflections serve as a reminder of the growth and resilience that come with experience.
The Hollywood Reporter has reached out to Coppola’s representative for further comment on Fishburne's reflections regarding their time working together.
