While their characters were able to find peace, the same cannot be said for the two actors.
Over the years, both MacLaine and Winger have publicly discussed their issues with each other.
From differences in acting styles to a bizarre allegation involving flatulence, let's take a closer look at what these co-stars have had to say about their unhappiness while working together.
MacLaine plays a controlling and disappointed mother in “Terms of Endearment,” while Winger portrays her daughter.
The film follows their evolving relationship over a span of 30 years.
MacLaine won the Best Actress Oscar for her role, competing against Winger who was also nominated in the same category.
During her acceptance speech, MacLaine praised Winger's talent, stating that she wanted to work with her turbulent brilliance.
However, the camera caught Winger laughing in the audience, suggesting a disconnect between the two.
Rumors of tension between the co-stars began circulating from the start of filming.
In a 1984 interview with People magazine, MacLaine acknowledged the differences between herself and Winger.
She described wearing her leftover fur coats while Winger opted for combat boots and a miniskirt, which highlighted their contrasting styles.
There were rumors that Winger demanded top billing and that physical altercations occurred between the two.
However, both actresses admitted that their clashes contributed to the gritty authenticity of their performances.
In a 1986 interview with The New York Times, Winger confessed that she and MacLaine did have disagreements.
Despite the conflicts, there was always a mutual respect between them.
In her 1995 memoir, “My Lucky Stars,” MacLaine made a surprising claim about Winger.
According to MacLaine, during a rehearsal, Winger tried to dictate where MacLaine should stand.
MacLaine asserted her knowledge of marks, which led Winger to respond by lifting her skirt slightly, looking over her shoulder, and farting in MacLaine's face.
Years later, Winger addressed MacLaine's claim during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live in 2018.
Winger clarified that it was MacLaine who wrote about her, not the other way around.
When asked about the wilder stories from MacLaine's memoir, Winger confirmed that there was some truth to them.
The strained relationship between Shirley MacLaine and Debra Winger during the making of “Terms of Endearment” is a testament to the complexities that can arise in the world of acting.
Despite their differences, both actresses delivered acclaimed performances that captivated audiences.
The behind-the-scenes drama only adds to the intrigue surrounding the film.
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