Unveiling the Untold Stories: Don Rickles' Outtakes from Casino

Don Rickles, the legendary comedian, has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry with his unique brand of humor. His wit and quick comebacks have made him a household name, and his performances have been celebrated for decades. One of the most memorable performances of his career was in the 1995 film "Casino," directed by Martin Scorsese. The film showcased Rickles' exceptional talent and added another layer of depth to his already impressive resume. In this article, we will delve into the untold stories behind Don Rickles' outtakes from "Casino," shedding light on the comedic genius that brought laughter to millions.

1. The Background of "Casino"

"Casino" is a biographical crime film that tells the true story of Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal, a former professional gambler who became the boss of the Stardust Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The film features an ensemble cast, including Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, Sharon Stone, and, of course, Don Rickles. The movie received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including three Oscars.

2. Don Rickles' Character in "Casino"

In "Casino," Don Rickles plays Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal's father, a character named Frank Rosenthal Sr. The role required Rickles to portray a complex, multi-dimensional character who is both loving and abusive. His performance was praised for its authenticity and depth, as he brought a sense of humanity to the character.

3. The Untold Stories of Don Rickles' Outtakes

While "Casino" is a well-known film, there are many untold stories about the outtakes and deleted scenes that never made it to the final cut. Here are some of the most intriguing ones:

a. The Deleted Scene with Joe Pesci

In one deleted scene, Don Rickles and Joe Pesci had a hilarious exchange that was later cut from the film. The scene featured Rickles as Frank Rosenthal Sr. and Pesci as his son, Sam "Ace" Rosenthal. The two characters were arguing about the family business, and their back-and-forth was filled with comedic gold.

b. The Unseen Improv with Robert De Niro

Another deleted scene showed Don Rickles improvising with Robert De Niro, who played Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal. The scene was a conversation between the two characters about their lives and the challenges they faced. The improvisation was so natural and funny that it's a shame it was left on the cutting room floor.

c. The Deleted Joke with Sharon Stone

In one deleted scene, Don Rickles had a chance to showcase his comedic timing with Sharon Stone, who played Ginger, Frank Rosenthal's wife. The scene was a humorous exchange between the two characters, but the joke was cut from the film, leaving viewers craving more.

4. The Impact of the Outtakes

The deleted scenes and outtakes from "Casino" provide a glimpse into the creative process of the film and the incredible talent of Don Rickles. These scenes would have added depth to the characters and further showcased Rickles' comedic prowess. Unfortunately, they were left on the cutting room floor, but they serve as a reminder of the potential that was lost.

5. The Legacy of Don Rickles

Don Rickles' career spanned six decades, and he has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His performances in films like "Casino" have solidified his status as a comedic icon. The outtakes from the film are just a small testament to the genius that was Don Rickles.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What was Don Rickles' character in "Casino"?

Don Rickles played Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal's father, a character named Frank Rosenthal Sr.

2. Did Don Rickles have any deleted scenes in "Casino"?

Yes, there were several deleted scenes that were cut from the final cut of the film, showcasing Rickles' comedic talent.

3. How did Don Rickles' performance in "Casino" compare to his other roles?

Don Rickles' performance in "Casino" was praised for its authenticity and depth, as he brought a sense of humanity to the character of Frank Rosenthal Sr.

4. What was the impact of the deleted scenes on the film's overall quality?

The deleted scenes would have added depth to the characters and showcased Don Rickles' comedic prowess, but they were ultimately left on the cutting room floor.

5. How does Don Rickles' legacy in the entertainment industry continue to influence today's comedians?

Don Rickles' unique brand of humor and quick wit continue to inspire comedians around the world, and his legacy is evident in the work of many contemporary comedians.