Aziz Ansari Holds Hope for Shelved Directorial Debut “Being Mortal”

Comedian and filmmaker Aziz Ansari still hopes to complete his shelved movie, “Being Mortal.” The project was suspended in 2022 due to a complaint against co-star Bill Murray. Production was halted just weeks before filming ended.

Searchlight Pictures, the studio behind the film, stopped work following an investigation. The incident left the fate of Ansari’s directorial debut in limbo. New comments from Ansari reveal the project is not forgotten.

Production Halted Amid On-Set Controversy

“Being Mortal” was set to be Ansari’s first film as a director. It was an adaptation of Atul Gawande’s nonfiction book about end-of-life care. The cast included Bill Murray and Seth Rogen.

In April 2022, a complaint was made about Murray’s behavior. According to reports, the complaint alleged inappropriate conduct. Searchlight Pictures suspended production immediately to investigate.

The dispute was later settled privately. However, the studio ultimately decided to cancel the project entirely. This left the film unfinished and unreleased.

Ansari has since directed another film, “Good Fortune.” But he recently told Entertainment Weekly he still thinks about “Being Mortal.” He expressed pride in the work that was completed.

Ansari’s Persistent Vision for the Unfinished Film

In his interview, Ansari confirmed he has edited some of the footage. He stated there is material the entire team is proud of. The project clearly remains personally significant to him.

He acknowledged the final decision rests with the studio. “I think we just have to wait and see,” Ansari said. His comments suggest ongoing informal discussions about a potential revival.

This situation highlights how off-set issues can derail major productions. For Ansari, it meant his first planned directorial feature was shelved. The industry often faces difficult choices when personnel issues arise.

The episode did not stop his filmmaking career. “Good Fortune” has now debuted. Yet the desire to finish his initial passion project persists.

The future of “Aziz Ansari Being Mortal” remains uncertain. The comedian’s candid hope offers a glimpse into unfinished creative journeys. Only time will tell if this story gets its proper ending.

Info at your fingertips

What is the movie “Being Mortal” about?

It was adapted from Dr. Atul Gawande’s book. The book explores medicine and what matters at the end of life. The film version was a comedy-drama starring Seth Rogen and Bill Murray.

Why was “Being Mortal” cancelled?

Production was suspended after a complaint about Bill Murray’s behavior. Searchlight Pictures investigated and settled the matter. They ultimately decided to cancel the film entirely.

Has Aziz Ansari directed any other movies?

Yes. After the “Being Mortal” halt, he directed the film “Good Fortune.” That movie has since been released, marking his actual directorial debut.

Does Aziz Ansari think “Being Mortal” will ever be finished?

He has expressed hope but says it’s up to the studio. Ansari told Entertainment Weekly he would love to finish it. He mentioned having edited footage the team is proud of.

What was the source for this news?

This report is based on Aziz Ansari’s recent interview with Entertainment Weekly. Further context comes from reputable industry reporting by outlets like Reuters on the initial production shutdown.