Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist: Billy Crystal Opens Up About ‘When Harry Met Sally’ Legacy

Episode Overview In this engaging episode of NBC's "Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist," host Willie Geist sits down with Hollywood legend Billy Crystal to delve deep into Crystal's illustrious career, his personal journey, and the enduring legacy of his iconic film, When Harry Met Sally. Filmed in the historic Jack Crystal Theater at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, the conversation offers listeners an intimate look into Crystal's life both on and off the screen.

1. A Meaningful Setting: The Jack Crystal Theater

Timestamp: [00:55]

Willie Geist begins by highlighting the significance of the Jack Crystal Theater as the backdrop for their conversation. Named after Billy Crystal's father, Jack Crystal, a renowned bandleader and producer, the theater holds profound sentimental value for Crystal. He reminisces about his childhood experiences, performing alongside jazz legends and how these early exposures ignited his passion for entertainment.

Billy Crystal: “It's the greatest compliment you can have.” ([03:52])

Crystal emphasizes the honor of having the theater named after his father, reflecting on the inclusive and groundbreaking nature of Jack Crystal's productions, which integrated diverse musical talents during the 1950s and 60s.

2. The Genesis of a Comedy Icon

Timestamp: [07:15]

The conversation shifts to Crystal's early foray into comedy. Willie asks about the pivotal moments that solidified Crystal's commitment to entertainment.

Billy Crystal: “It's probably inevitable from that tap dance when you were five years old.” ([07:15])

Crystal credits his spontaneous tap dance performance at age five as the moment he became irrevocably hooked on performing. This early experience laid the foundation for his future in comedy and acting.

3. Exploring New Horizons: "Before" on Apple TV

Timestamp: [07:24]

Crystal discusses his latest endeavor, the dark series Before on Apple TV, portraying Dr. Eli Adler, a child psychiatrist. This role marks a departure from his traditional comedic persona, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Billy Crystal: “It's a psychodrama thriller. It's the story of a pediatric psychiatrist dealing with a troubled young boy…” ([07:47])

He describes the series as a profound exploration of personal demons and self-discovery, highlighting the intense emotional demands of the role and the immersive method acting he employed.

Billy Crystal: “I was so immersed in Eli and fearless in what I would do…” ([12:56])

Crystal elaborates on his rigorous approach to character development, balancing intense filming schedules with personal life, and the challenges of maintaining his identity outside the character.

4. Building Bridges: Friendships in Hollywood

Timestamp: [33:15]

A significant portion of the interview delves into Crystal's enduring friendships within the entertainment industry, particularly his bond with Robert Klein.

Billy Crystal: “We auditioned over 700 kids in the US and Canada… but he was in London and I was in LA… He just blew me away.” ([17:48])

Crystal recounts the meticulous casting process for Before, emphasizing the exceptional talent of his young co-star, Jacoby Jupe, and the serendipitous nature of his collaboration with industry veterans like Carl Reiner and Norman Lear.

5. The Magic of "When Harry Met Sally"

Timestamp: [44:15]

Willie and Billy reflect on the enduring popularity of When Harry Met Sally, celebrating its 35-year legacy.

Billy Crystal: “There’s so much truth and love in that movie. There’s so much romance… it keeps happening.” ([44:34])

Crystal expresses gratitude for the film's lasting impact, noting how its themes of love and relationships continue to resonate with new generations. He shares anecdotes about audiences reaching out to him, showcasing the film's profound connection with viewers.

Billy Crystal: “We knew it was good. There's a wonderful script… it just was meant to be.” ([46:30])

He attributes the film's success to its impeccable script, chemistry with co-star Meg Ryan, and the perfect timing of its release, which captured the essence of New York City and the complexities of modern relationships.

6. Personal Reflections: 700 Sundays and Legacy

Timestamp: [49:05]

The discussion transitions to Crystal's heartfelt Broadway show, 700 Sundays, which narrates his family's journey and the loss of his father.

Billy Crystal: “It was such a moving and honest way to tell my story… and putting a face on grief as this boulder that I built.” ([49:15])

Crystal shares how performing 700 Sundays was a therapeutic process, allowing him to channel personal pain into art. He highlights the overwhelming response from audiences who found solace and strength through his story.

Billy Crystal: “I have a feeling there's plenty more ahead… that was so important to me.” ([52:27])

He reflects on the show's significance in his life and its role in helping others navigate their grief, emphasizing the universal nature of loss and the healing power of storytelling.

7. Looking Forward: Continuing the Journey

Timestamp: [53:06]

As the conversation wraps up, Crystal contemplates his ongoing legacy and the future.

Billy Crystal: “Do you think about that sometimes?” ([53:06])

He often thinks about what his father would have thought of his accomplishments, expressing hope that Jack Crystal would be proud of the man and artist he has become.

Billy Crystal: “You'll hear it anywhere out on the street tonight in a bar somewhere… that's all a great friendship still.” ([42:48])

Crystal underscores the importance of lasting friendships and meaningful work, hinting at future projects and the continuous evolution of his career.

Conclusion

The episode provides a comprehensive look into Billy Crystal's life, from his early inspirations in the Jack Crystal Theater to his pivotal roles in film and television. Crystal's candid reflections on his career milestones, personal losses, and enduring friendships offer listeners a profound understanding of the man behind the iconic performances. His discussion about When Harry Met Sally and 700 Sundays underscores the blend of humor and heart that defines his legacy, making this episode a must-listen for fans and newcomers alike.

Notable Quotes:

• Billy Crystal: “It's the greatest compliment you can have.” ([03:52])

• Billy Crystal: “It's probably inevitable from that tap dance when you were five years old.” ([07:15])

• Billy Crystal: “It's a psychodrama thriller. It's the story of a pediatric psychiatrist dealing with a troubled young boy…” ([07:47])

• Billy Crystal: “I was so immersed in Eli and fearless in what I would do…” ([12:56])

• Billy Crystal: “We knew it was good. There's a wonderful script… it just was meant to be.” ([46:30])

• Billy Crystal: “It was such a moving and honest way to tell my story… and putting a face on grief as this boulder that I built.” ([49:15])

Additional Information: Listeners can watch Billy Crystal's series Before on Apple TV and follow upcoming episodes of "Sunday TODAY with Willie Geist" on NBC. For more insights and behind-the-scenes conversations, subscribing to the "Sunday Sitdown" podcast is highly recommended.