In what could have been a nostalgic return to classic buddy comedy, Dick Van Dyke recently revealed that he and the late Ed Asner were planning a remake of the iconic 1968 comedy film The Odd Couple. The revelation came during a Q&A at the Vandy Camp event in Malibu, where Van Dyke shared heartfelt thoughts on the missed opportunity and his enduring gratitude for a long career.
“That would’ve been such fun, and we lost it,” Van Dyke said, referencing Asner’s death in 2021. “I’ve lost a lot of friends… but life’s been good to me. I can’t complain.”
While details about the planned remake are scarce, the loss of Asner seems to have put the final nail in the project’s coffin. It’s unknown how far discussions had progressed before his passing.
A Comedy Classic With a Long Legacy
Originally written by Neil Simon, The Odd Couple began as a Broadway play before becoming a critically acclaimed 1968 film starring Walter Matthau and Jack Lemmon. It later spawned a successful 1970s TV adaptation and a 2015 reboot starring Matthew Perry and Thomas Lennon.
Though multiple remakes exist, Van Dyke and Asner’s version could have brought a fresh, senior twist to the famous mismatched roommates. With Van Dyke’s ever-charming optimism and Asner’s curmudgeonly edge, the chemistry might have captured a new take on Oscar and Felix — albeit decades older.
Would It Have Worked?
Let’s be honest — remaking The Odd Couple with two actors nearing or over 90 is a bold idea. While Van Dyke still exudes energy and showmanship, Asner had slowed in his final years, mostly appearing in voice roles or brief cameos. The physical comedy and pacing of The Odd Couple might have been challenging.
Still, the thought of two Hollywood legends bringing their own interpretations to the roles is enticing. They may not have had a direct connection to the original, but their status as comedy veterans would’ve added layers of meaning to the remake.
A Tribute to a Missed Opportunity
Sadly, with Asner gone, the project is unlikely to move forward. Recasting would risk losing the heartfelt appeal of two real-life old friends reuniting on screen. It would have required significant adaptation of the story, likely focusing more on aging, legacy, and friendship than mid-life crisis and domestic quirks.
But even the idea of this remake reminds us of the deep roots these actors have in American comedy. Their version of The Odd Couple will remain a “what if” — a project that never was, but certainly had potential to be special.
Source : screenrant.com
