Decades in the making, this reunion serves as a glimpse into what lies ahead, or so they hope.
For Danny DeVito, reconnecting with Arnold Schwarzenegger and metaphorically rescuing him from a predicament in State Farm Insurance’s Super Bowl commercial doesn't just highlight their professional rapport, but rather underscores their deep-seated camaraderie cultivated over nearly four decades.
"I'm consistently there for him," DeVito shared with USA TODAY Sports ahead of his unexpected appearance in "Like A Good Neighbaaa," the insurance giant's 60-second Super Bowl spot unveiled during a second-quarter intermission.
"He reciprocates that for me. Our bond is strong. During filming, we constantly bantered, enjoying ourselves and exchanging playful jabs.
"Although I hail from New Jersey, a sentiment not shared by him, his roots echo a similar philosophy—keeping things light-hearted, enjoyable, and optimistic."
Indeed, Schwarzenegger fully embraces his Austrian heritage in the commercial, grappling with the pronunciation of State Farm's tagline until his pint-sized co-star from the 1988 hit "Twins" and its 1994 sequel "Junior" comes to his aid.
As DeVito, aged 79, and Schwarzenegger, aged 76, gracefully step into their esteemed years, DeVito likens their dynamic to that of unruly students whom a teacher prefers not to seat together. According to DeVito, their chemistry was effortless on set, with the two frequently engaging in playful banter.
Their collaboration may not be over yet.
DeVito reveals that he and Schwarzenegger were collaborating with Ivan Reitman, the director behind "Twins," "Junior," and the original "Ghostbusters," on a project featuring the duo when Reitman tragically passed away in 2022. Reitman's demise dealt a significant blow to both actors, but they are now back to square one, hoping to embark on a new venture.
"We've always discussed the possibility of reuniting for another film," DeVito states. "We're constantly in search of a narrative that brings us together. While the State Farm commercial was a departure from a full-length feature, it was enjoyable.
"(Reitman) was a remarkable individual, and we were on the brink of collaborating on another film, the three of us together. Although that opportunity has been lost, we're regrouping."
Since his breakthrough role in the understated comedy "Taxi" in 1979, DeVito has hardly slowed down. Today, he is recognized by the younger generation for his work on "It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia," not to mention his iconic roles in "Throw Mama From The Train," "Get Shorty," or "Matilda."
In the upcoming month, DeVito will join forces with the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra for "Matilda In Concert" at New Brunswick's State Theater, lending his narration to the film accompanied by composer David Newman's score.
And in due time, he anticipates collaborating with Schwarzenegger on a project far surpassing the confines of a 60-second commercial.
"He boasts an incredible fan base," DeVito remarks. "We eagerly anticipate reuniting on the silver screen one day."