In a 2021 episode of the “Asian Enough” podcast, actress Lucy Liu spoke out about her experience working with Bill Murray on the set of “Charlie’s Angels.” Liu described his behavior as “unacceptable” and “inexcusable,” recalling that he had insulted her during filming. Their collaboration occurred in 1999, and Liu’s comments resurfaced four years later when she was questioned by the Guardian about her decision to address the issue.
Liu emphasized that speaking out was a natural response for her, stating she believes in protecting herself when faced with unfair treatment. She noted her reluctance to conform to typical Hollywood norms, asserting, “I was never that person.” Liu underscored the challenges faced by many Asian American actors in the industry, stressing that her success is not solely attributed to herself but is part of a collective effort.
Reflecting on her career, Liu shared that she managed to steer clear of many toxic situations by trusting her instincts, which allowed her to navigate potentially harmful environments without getting involved. She recounted an incident on the “Charlie’s Angels” set where Murray’s hurtful remarks seemed directed at her, leading to a moment of disbelief before it became clear he was indeed addressing her.
She firmly stood her ground against his unacceptable language, expressing no regrets for defending herself. Liu highlighted the importance of mutual respect in the workplace, stressing that it is vital to voice concerns about disrespectful behavior.
Following the podcast, Drew Barrymore, her co-star, publicly supported Liu’s stance, acknowledging that they all backed her actions during a challenging time. Barrymore noted that it was commendable for Liu to assert herself, reinforcing the importance of addressing disrespect in professional settings.
Liu’s revelations come amidst a backdrop of similar allegations against Murray, including accusations of inappropriate behavior during the production of a film directed by Aziz Ansari in 2022, which was ultimately halted. The discussions around Murray’s behavior have drawn attention, with actress Geena Davis also recounting her uncomfortable experiences with him in her memoir.