As time has gone by, multiple damaging stories have surfaced about Chevy Chase and his alleged difficult behavior. The once-named “funniest man in America” is no longer beloved in the eyes of his co-stars. The media has also been unkind to the actor. But the question is: does the 76-year-old deserve the reputation he’s been getting?
Comedian Marc Maron described an appearance he made at a comedy club as “bizarre.” (And that was the nicer part of his rant). But heckling Chase has become pretty common. He’s been called “difficult,” a “monster,” and has been accused of making racial cracks.
His Departure from SNL Was a Sign
Chase had a one-year contract with Saturday Night Live. After he won two Emmys for his writing and acting, he just upped and left the show mid-way through its second season. Why? He said he wanted to take some time to think about what he wanted to do.
Apparently, many cast members were devastated and even annoyed by his departure. They saw it as a betrayal and a sign of egomania. Chase eventually returned to SNL, but as a host. Chase and Bill Murray reportedly got into a brawl off-stage when Chase was hosting. Will Ferrell, whom everybody just loves, said Chase was the worst host to work with.
A Community Controversy
Chase was part of the comedy series Community, which began in 2009. His initial performance was well-received, but apparently, the series creator Dan Harmon had it in for Chase from the beginning. Each one admitted to feuding over creative differences, including script issues. Chase complained the show was not funny enough.
Chase allegedly walked off the show’s set in the final days of production. Following a major back-and-forth duel with Harmon, Chase started drinking and, according to his daughter, the glasses of wine turned to bottles, to vodka. He was later diagnosed with alcohol cardiomyopathy, a weakening of the heart muscles from alcohol abuse.
In response to all the hate in the media, Chase said, “I’ve gotten to a place where it doesn’t really matter what I write or say. Because it’s only an instant of an instant of my life.”
