Sun Dec 28 07:30:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

Director Noah Baumbach surprised George Clooney on the set of their new movie, “Jay Kelly,” by secretly inserting real clips from Clooney’s career into a scene where his character receives a life achievement award. Clooney and his co-star Adam Sandler were both unaware of the surprise, which sparked emotional reactions from them that were captured on film. The reel of footage, which includes clips from movies like “Ocean’s Eleven” and “ER,” became a key part of the scene. The film is available on Netflix.

News Article:

Clooney Gets Real: Unexpected Career Montage Triggers Emotion on ‘Jay Kelly’ Set

HOLLYWOOD – George Clooney got a dose of his own history when filming a pivotal scene for the new Netflix film, “Jay Kelly.” Director Noah Baumbach pulled a fast one on the seasoned actor by using actual clips from Clooney’s filmography in a scene where his character is honored with a life achievement award.

Clooney, along with co-star Adam Sandler, were kept completely in the dark about the surprise, leading to genuine and emotional reactions on camera. The reel featured an eclectic mix of Clooney’s work, from blockbusters like “Ocean’s Eleven” to his breakout role on “ER,” showcasing a career that spans decades.

“I was surprised, all right,” Clooney confessed in Entertainment Weekly’s “Around the Table” series, joined by Baumbach, Sandler, Laura Dern, and Emily Mortimer. Sandler added, “We felt things that we didn’t expect to feel.”

Baumbach cleverly incorporated the raw emotions into the film, capturing the genuine impact of a lifetime of work flashing before Clooney’s eyes. The scene serves as a powerful moment in “Jay Kelly,” a film about a movie star unexpectedly reconnecting with his daughter.

Audiences can witness Clooney’s unfiltered reaction and the full story of “Jay Kelly,” now streaming on Netflix.

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