Bruce Willis: Behind-the-scenes conflicts and missed roles

Director Renny Harlin has revealed behind-the-scenes tensions during the filming of Die Hard 2. Harlin noted that Bruce Willis refused to perform the sarcastic humor and witty lines characteristic of the John McClane character, insisting on playing the role with complete seriousness. To resolve the conflict, producer Joel Silver mediated a compromise where the crew filmed multiple serious takes to satisfy Willis, alongside comedic takes requested by the director.

Separately, Bruce Willis reflected on a missed career opportunity regarding the Academy Award-winning film The English Patient. In the mid-1990s, Willis was offered the role of Canadian intelligence agent David 'Moose' Caravaggio. However, he declined the part after his agent advised him that the project was an 'art film' that would not find success. The film eventually won nine Oscars, including Best Picture, and the role was ultimately played by Willem Dafoe.