Noble Blood: E.T. and Me
Hosted by Dana Schwartz | Released on December 14, 2024 | iHeartPodcasts and Grim & Mild
Introduction
In this poignant episode of Noble Blood, host Dana Schwartz delves deep into the intertwined lives of Matt Demerit and the creation of one of cinema’s most beloved creatures, E.T. Matt Demerit, known for portraying the iconic extraterrestrial in Steven Spielberg's classic film, shares his unique journey—from being an unlikely child actor to navigating personal tragedies that shaped his life. This episode explores themes of resilience, identity, and the profound impact of storytelling.
Matt Demerit's Early Life
Matt Demerit grew up in the suburbs of Torrance, California, in an environment that balanced normal childhood experiences with unique personal challenges. Born without legs, Matt learned to navigate his world through a wheelchair and by walking on his hands. Despite these challenges, his childhood was filled with creativity and resilience.
Notable Quote:
"[08:10] Matt Demerit: I just always perceived my condition as normal. That's all I was used to. I wasn't struggling with the loss of limbs. I just always got around naturally."
Matt's father, an illustrator for the post office, fostered Matt's artistic inclinations, encouraging him to draw monsters and creatures—a passion that would later play a pivotal role in his unexpected casting in E.T..
The Opportunity with Spielberg
In late summer 1981, Matt received an unexpected opportunity that would alter the course of his life. At age 11, while enjoying a typical summer before the school year, Matt's unique ability to walk on his hands caught the attention of Steven Spielberg.
Notable Quote:
"[03:25] Dana Schwartz: ...a movie that would feel feature Matt as the star."
The project, which would eventually become E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, required a performer with agility and a distinctive way of moving—qualities that Matt possessed naturally.
Casting for E.T.
The casting process for E.T. was meticulous. Spielberg sought authenticity, rejecting the idea of having a person in a rubber suit. Instead, he collaborated with special effects artist Carlo Rambaldi to create a convincing animatronic puppet. However, to bring E.T. to life beyond the puppet’s limitations, Spielberg needed someone who could embody the creature's unique movements.
Notable Quote:
"[18:55] Matt Demerit: So Universal Studios reached out to UCLA Medical Center to see if there was anyone with dwarfism or was in a small stature that could fit in the costume. And the only one they had on hand who was short was me."
Matt was selected not only for his stature but also for his ability to perform movements that would enhance E.T.'s extraterrestrial presence. This collaboration between Matt and the production team was instrumental in creating E.T.'s iconic on-screen persona.
Filming the Movie
Filming E.T. was a challenging yet rewarding experience for Matt. The custom-designed latex suit was both cumbersome and expressive, allowing Matt to convey a wide range of emotions and movements. Despite the physical constraints, Matt's dedication and natural talent shone through in his performance.
Notable Quote:
"[31:05] Matt Demerit: I remember being so excited. I felt like I could do everything that they were directing me to."
Matt's role extended beyond acting; he performed many of the stunts required for E.T., earning him the nickname "stunt ET." This not only showcased his versatility but also his commitment to the project.
Building Relationships on Set
On set, Matt formed strong bonds with his co-stars Henry Thomas (Elliot) and Robert McNaughton (Michael). These friendships provided Matt with a support system that contrasted sharply with his experiences at school, where he faced bullying.
Notable Quote:
"[32:09] Matt Demerit: We completely bonded as soon as we met... It was our own group on that set. And that was fantastic because it rescued me from that situation."
Additionally, Matt worked alongside Pat Bailon and Tamara Detrow, who also portrayed E.T. in various scenes, creating a cohesive unit that brought the character to life seamlessly.
Personal Struggles and Family Tragedy
While Matt found solace and acceptance on set, his personal life was fraught with challenges. His father struggled with untreated bipolar disorder, leading to a strained relationship. The production of E.T. coincided with a tumultuous period at home, culminating in his father's tragic suicide in 1982.
Notable Quote:
"[46:09] Matt Demerit: So, yeah, just lucky happenstance. Something came along at that time that would bring all this residual stuff that would help me absorb the impact of my father dying."
Matt credits his experience working on E.T. with providing him the strength and community needed to navigate this profound loss.
Impact and Legacy of E.T.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial became a monumental success, resonating with audiences worldwide. Spielberg's vision, combined with Matt's heartfelt performance, resulted in a film that transcended generations. The movie's themes of friendship, loss, and hope struck a chord with both children and adults.
Notable Quote:
"[39:14] Matt Demerit: They didn't know why I was gone, but there was like an intangible security and confidence that I got from it..."
The legacy of E.T. continues to influence filmmakers and audiences alike. Matt's portrayal of the beloved alien remains a testament to the power of authentic performance and storytelling.
Life After E.T.
Following his role in E.T., Matt appeared in a few other films, including The Fourth Wise Man and Cyborg 2. However, acting never became his passion. Instead, Matt pursued a career in education, teaching English, and later ventured into writing and podcasting. He remains a cherished figure at conventions, where fans celebrate his contribution to cinematic history.
Notable Quote:
"[51:20] Matt Demerit: ...I was part of this company. I was a man in a very famous creature suit."
Matt's reflections highlight the bittersweet nature of his experience—balancing fame with personal grief, and finding purpose beyond the silver screen.
Conclusion
In E.T. and Me, Dana Schwartz masterfully unravels the layers of Matt Demerit's life, illustrating how a single role can intertwine with personal destiny. Matt's story is one of overcoming adversity, finding strength in community, and the enduring impact of a film that became more than just entertainment—it became a lifeline. This episode serves as a heartfelt tribute to the hidden struggles and triumphs behind beloved cinematic moments.
Closing Quote:
"[51:55] Matt Demerit: ...So there's always going to be a bit of a detachment from that, like pinching myself. Is it still real?... We're still celebrating this movie 40 years later."
Additional Insights
The episode also features insights from pop culture historian Simon Brew, who emphasizes the universal appeal of E.T.:
Notable Quote:
"[43:03] Dana Schwartz: ...for children, it was that the movie understood them and took their problems seriously. For adults, it was the ability to see through younger eyes..."
Simon Brew highlights how E.T. serves as a bridge between generations, offering a shared emotional experience that remains relevant decades after its release.
Final Thoughts
Noble Blood: E.T. and Me is a touching exploration of how entertainment intersects with real-life struggles and healing. Matt Demerit's narrative offers listeners a glimpse into the making of a cinematic legend and the personal journey that accompanied it. Dana Schwartz's thoughtful storytelling ensures that the legacy of E.T. is honored not just as a film but as a beacon of hope and resilience.
This episode was meticulously produced by the Very Special Episodes team, including writers, producers, and sound designers who brought Matt Demerit's story to life. For more uplifting and inspiring stories, tune into future episodes of Noble Blood.