If you’ve ever watched Boston Legal, you know that it’s a show filled with strong personalities, intense drama, and larger-than-life performances. However, there’s one little detail behind the scenes that you might not know: James Spader couldn’t stand a certain habit of one of his co-stars. In fact, it was so disgusting to him that he would actively avoid walking by whenever he saw it happening on set. Curious? Read on to discover what made the talented actor recoil in disgust and how this quirky behind-the-scenes tidbit sheds light on the Boston Legal experience.
The On-Set Drama of Boston Legal
An Iconic Legal Drama with a Star-Studded Cast
Boston Legal, created by David E. Kelley, quickly became a fan favorite due to its unique blend of legal drama, sharp wit, and unforgettable characters. The show featured powerhouse performances by James Spader, William Shatner, Candice Bergen, and others, creating a dynamic that resonated with viewers. But while the performances may have been intense and impactful, there were also moments off-screen that made the set memorable for all the wrong reasons.
James Spader and William Shatner’s Unlikely Pairing
When it comes to Boston Legal, one of the most notable on-screen dynamics was the relationship between James Spader’s Alan Shore and William Shatner’s Denny Crane. Their odd-couple pairing became iconic, with Alan being the morally ambiguous lawyer and Denny being the eccentric, larger-than-life figure. Their bond, however, wasn’t just limited to the script. Behind the scenes, Spader and Shatner were known to have developed a unique friendship, though not without a few moments of tension and humor.
The Disgusting Habit James Spader Couldn’t Stand
The Intriguing Habit That Sparked Discomfort
Despite the camaraderie, there was one thing that James Spader absolutely could not tolerate while filming Boston Legal—a disgusting habit that would have most people cringing in discomfort. The habit in question? Chewing tobacco. While this may not be the most shocking revelation on a show that dealt with serious legal issues and ethical dilemmas, it certainly threw a wrench in the otherwise relaxed atmosphere on set.
Chewing Tobacco: A Habit That Grossed Spader Out
According to reports, certain cast members—particularly William Shatner—were known to chew tobacco during filming breaks. While Shatner himself was not shy about his use of chewing tobacco, Spader found it utterly repulsive. The strong, lingering odor and the thought of it grossed him out so much that he would actively avoid areas where he knew tobacco-chewing was happening.
Why Was James Spader So Disgusted?
A Matter of Personal Preference or Something Deeper?
James Spader’s reaction to chewing tobacco might seem a bit extreme, but there’s actually a good reason for his aversion. For Spader, it wasn’t just the habit itself that was the problem; it was the overall health implications and the social discomfort that came with it. While chewing tobacco is relatively common in some parts of the world, it’s not something many people enjoy witnessing, especially in a professional environment.
Health Concerns Play a Role
Spader has always been known for his strong opinions on health, particularly when it comes to smoking and tobacco use. In fact, he’s openly spoken about how he views these habits as detrimental to one’s health. This likely played a role in his strong negative reaction to seeing people chew tobacco on set.
How James Spader Dealt with the Disgusting Habit
The Strategy of Avoidance
While it might sound like a simple issue, the reality was that Spader’s discomfort wasn’t something he could just brush off. According to reports, he would take deliberate steps to avoid walking past or interacting with the individuals who were chewing tobacco. Whenever he saw someone indulging in the habit, Spader would make sure to steer clear, opting instead to stay as far away as possible from the activity.
The Professional Actor vs. the Gross-Out Factor
Despite his aversion, Spader was still able to maintain professionalism on set. He didn’t let his personal discomfort interfere with his work, but it’s clear that the habit was a source of tension behind the scenes. It’s a testament to his professionalism that he was able to put aside his dislike for the habit and focus on delivering stellar performances, regardless of the distractions around him.
William Shatner’s Role in All of This
Shatner’s Own Relationship with Chewing Tobacco
While James Spader’s reaction to chewing tobacco might have been more extreme, it’s important to note that William Shatner had a much more relaxed approach to the habit. In fact, Shatner was known to be a casual user of chewing tobacco on the set of Boston Legal. He never made a secret of his preference for it, and it wasn’t something he attempted to hide. This made Spader’s discomfort all the more noticeable, as Shatner didn’t seem to care much for the opinions of others regarding his habit.
The Two Actors Navigate Their Differences
Despite their differences, Shatner and Spader maintained a great professional relationship. While Spader may have avoided the areas where Shatner chewed tobacco, they still worked together harmoniously. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, and off-screen, their ability to respect each other’s personal boundaries likely helped smooth over any potential conflicts.
The Legacy of Boston Legal and Its Behind-the-Scenes Drama
Boston Legal’s Enduring Popularity
While the show ended in 2008, Boston Legal continues to have a lasting impact. The unique characters, dramatic storylines, and sharp dialogue have left an impression on TV viewers everywhere. And behind the scenes, the quirky moments, such as James Spader’s disdain for chewing tobacco, remind us that even the most polished productions have their behind-the-scenes quirks.
The Impact of Chemistry Between Spader and Shatner
The dynamic between Spader and Shatner remains one of the show’s most beloved aspects. Their contrasting personalities and on-screen banter brought something special to the series, and their ability to work through personal differences only made their partnership stronger. Fans of Boston Legal will always remember the tension-filled yet hilarious moments between Alan Shore and Denny Crane.
Conclusion: A Funny Footnote in TV History
While James Spader’s aversion to chewing tobacco might seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of Boston Legal, it adds a layer of depth to the show’s off-screen story. The way Spader and Shatner navigated this difference in personal habits is a testament to their professionalism and dedication to their craft. And as Boston Legal continues to be remembered as one of the best legal dramas of its time, these quirky behind-the-scenes moments only make the show more beloved by fans.
FAQs
1. What habit did James Spader find disgusting on the set of Boston Legal?
James Spader couldn’t stand the habit of chewing tobacco, which some cast members, including William Shatner, indulged in during filming.
2. Why did Spader dislike chewing tobacco so much?
Spader found chewing tobacco unpleasant due to its health implications and the discomfort it caused him in a professional environment.
3. How did Spader deal with his discomfort around chewing tobacco?
Spader would avoid walking past anyone who was chewing tobacco, taking care to steer clear of the habit when it occurred on set.
4. Was William Shatner aware of Spader’s discomfort with chewing tobacco?
Yes, Shatner was aware of Spader’s aversion but continued to use chewing tobacco without letting it affect their professional relationship.
5. Did Spader and Shatner get along despite their differences?
Yes, despite their differences, particularly with tobacco use, Spader and Shatner maintained a strong and professional working relationship, which translated into great on-screen chemistry.
