When it comes to Hollywood feuds, few are as legendary as the one between George Clooney and David O. Russell. The pair famously clashed on the set of the 1999 film Three Kings, leading to a physical altercation that would forever change Clooney's view on working with the director. Now, 25 years later, Clooney is making it clear: no film is worth working with someone like Russell.
Three Kings, which was released on October 1, 1999, was a critical and commercial success, but its production was anything but smooth. Clooney, who starred alongside Mark Wahlberg and Ice Cube, found himself at odds with Russell, who was known for his abrasive directing style. The tipping point came when Russell allegedly mistreated extras on set, prompting Clooney to step in. The confrontation escalated into a physical fight, cementing a rift that has never healed.
Clooney has been vocal about his disdain for Russell, telling GQ that he would never work with a “miserable f*ck” like him again. This sentiment has only grown stronger over time, as Russell's reputation for volatile behavior has become more widely known. From punching a Sony executive at an Oscar party to putting Christopher Nolan in a headlock over casting disputes, Russell's antics have made him a controversial figure in Hollywood.
One of the most shocking incidents involving Russell occurred on the set of I Heart Huckabees (2004), where leaked footage shows actress Lily Tomlin losing her temper with the director. Even more telling was Amy Adams' admission that she cried almost every day while filming American Hustle (2013) due to Russell's harsh treatment.
Despite his talent, Russell's career has taken a hit in recent years. His last film, Amsterdam (2022), was a critical and financial disappointment, losing Searchlight Pictures over $100 million. Though he has several projects in development, including a Linda Ronstadt biopic with Selena Gomez, none seem to be gaining significant traction.
Clooney's experience with Russell serves as a cautionary tale in Hollywood. No matter how talented a director may be, a toxic work environment can overshadow even the most brilliant films. As Clooney puts it, no movie is worth enduring such misery—and after 25 years, it's clear that he still stands by that belief.
