Long before they were Hollywood heavyweights, Will Arnett and Bradley Cooper were just two aspiring actors living next door to each other in Venice, California, marveling at their legendary neighbor, Dennis Hopper. Their deep friendship, forged in those early days and strengthened by life’s challenges, has now culminated in a significant professional collaboration on the new film, “Is This Thing On?”, proving that authentic connections can thrive in the cutthroat world of entertainment.
The friendship between Will Arnett and Bradley Cooper is one of Hollywood’s most enduring and, for fans, most fascinating. Their bond, which spans over two decades, has been a testament to navigating the industry’s highs and lows. From sharing a building as young, aspiring actors to a pivotal moment of intervention, their story culminates in their highly anticipated creative partnership on the film “Is This Thing On?”, where their shared history brings a unique depth to their work.
The Early Days: Fanning Over Dennis Hopper in Venice
Their journey began in New York, where Arnett and Cooper first crossed paths at a bar, quickly developing an instant rapport. This connection soon led them to become neighbors in Venice, California, during the nascent stages of their careers. Arnett recounts moving into the unit right next to Cooper’s, sharing a stairwell that opened up to a shared building. It was in this setting that they experienced a common Hollywood rite of passage: celebrity spotting.
Their particular thrill came from observing their esteemed neighbor, the iconic Dennis Hopper. Arnett shared with People how he and Cooper would often see Hopper in his backyard or emerging from the back alley. For the young actors, it was a constant source of excitement and awe. “As young actors, we were like, ‘Oh my god, Dennis Hopper!’ or ‘I saw Dennis Hopper today!’ For us, it was such a thrill,” Arnett explained.
Hopper, a two-time Academy Award nominee known for his roles in films like “Easy Rider,” passed away in 2010 at the age of 74. His presence, however, clearly left an impression on the budding careers of Arnett and Cooper, who were then navigating their own paths in the industry.
A Friendship Forged in Hollywood: More Than Just Neighbors
The depth of Arnett and Cooper’s friendship became even more apparent when Cooper revealed a profound moment on the SmartLess podcast in 2022. He shared that it was Will Arnett who intervened with him back in 2000, when Cooper was 29, struggling with addiction, and exhibiting challenging behavior. This emotional revelation underscored how vital their relationship is, highlighting Arnett’s unwavering support and honesty.
Their bond extends to a close-knit group that includes Jason Bateman and Sean Hayes, the co-hosts of the SmartLess podcast. Cooper has known all three for over 20 years, a rarity in an industry often criticized for its superficial connections. These genuine relationships, built on shared experiences and real memories, stand in stark contrast to the often “cutthroat” nature of Hollywood, as described by LaineyGossip.
“Is This Thing On?”: Bringing Decades of Friendship to the Screen
After years of deep friendship, Will Arnett and Bradley Cooper are finally bringing their creative forces together for the film “Is This Thing On?”. The project marks a significant collaboration, with Cooper not only directing but also co-starring, while Arnett co-penned the script with Mark Chappell.
The film delves into the complexities of a crumbling marriage. Arnett and Laura Dern portray a couple on the verge of divorce, with Arnett’s character seeking new purpose by venturing into the New York stand-up comedy scene. Dern’s character, meanwhile, confronts the sacrifices she made for their family, forcing them to navigate co-parenting and re-evaluating the forms love can take, as reported by Deadline.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast beyond Arnett, Cooper, and Dern, including:
- Andra Day
- Christine Ebersole
- Ciarán Hinds
- Sean Hayes
- Scott Icenogle (Hayes’s husband)
- Peyton Manning
- Amy Sedaris
“Is This Thing On?” premiered at the New York Film Festival on October 10 and is set for release in select theaters on December 19, marking Cooper’s third directorial effort following his acclaimed works “A Star Is Born” and “Maestro.”
Will Arnett’s Diverse Career: A Fan-Favorite Journey
Will Arnett has built a reputation for versatility, excelling in both live-action and voice acting roles. He burst onto the scene with his Emmy-nominated portrayal of GOB Bluth on the iconic series “Arrested Development,” a role that solidified his comedic genius. His distinctive gravelly voice has also made him a beloved figure in animation, notably as the titular character in Netflix’s critically acclaimed “BoJack Horseman” and as Batman in “The Lego Movie” franchise.
Beyond his comedic roots, Arnett continues to explore diverse projects. He joined the cast of “The Morning Show” as Jennifer Aniston’s agent, Doug, a role that allowed him to explore the nuanced, often complex, dynamics of Hollywood representation. His upcoming work includes producing Peacock’s series “Twisted Metal” and co-starring in Taika Waititi’s “Next Goal Wins.”
Bradley Cooper’s Acclaimed Trajectory
Bradley Cooper has evolved into one of Hollywood’s most respected figures, earning nine Oscar nominations for his work as an actor, writer, and producer. His directorial debut with “A Star Is Born” was met with widespread critical acclaim, earning him multiple nominations. He continued this success with “Maestro,” further cementing his reputation as a formidable talent behind the camera.
In addition to his directorial ventures, Cooper maintains a robust acting career, most recently reprising his role as Rocket Raccoon in Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 3.” His journey from aspiring actor fanning over Dennis Hopper to a multi-hyphenate Oscar nominee reflects a dedication to craft that resonates deeply with audiences and critics alike.
The collaboration on “Is This Thing On?” is more than just another film project; it is a celebration of a deep, enduring friendship. For fans who have followed Will Arnett and Bradley Cooper’s individual careers and their shared moments, this film offers a unique opportunity to witness their personal bond translate into compelling cinematic storytelling, echoing the authentic connections that make Hollywood’s narratives truly special.
