Beetlejuice star Michael Keaton reveals why he was ‘nervous’ about reprising iconic role for Tim Burton’s highly-anticipated sequel

Beetlejuice star Michael Keaton reveals why he was 'nervous' about reprising iconic role for Tim Burton's highly-anticipated sequel

As a lifelong fan who grew up with the original Beetlejuice film, I can honestly say that watching Michael Keaton reprise his iconic role after 36 years was nothing short of magical. The anticipation for this sequel has been palpable, and seeing Keaton’s nervousness about not wanting to disappoint everyone only added to the excitement.


Michael Keaton openly expressed his apprehension about reprising the legendary character, Beetlejuice, in Tim Burton’s long-awaited sequel, as he didn’t want to let anyone down.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’d be delighted to share some trivia from my personal collection. Over three decades ago, I was captivated by the unique character of Bio-Exorcist, brought to life on screen by the talented Michael Keaton, who is now 72 years young. This iconic portrayal graced our screens in the cult classic movie of 1988, where he shared the limelight with esteemed actors such as Alec Baldwin, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O’Hara.

Tim Burton’s movie titled “Beetlejuice” is scheduled for release on September 6th. Apart from the original cast members, he has also brought in Jenna Ortega, Justin Theroux, and Willem Dafoe, along with his partner Monica Bellucci, to join the production.

During an interview with Al Roker on Today, Keaton said of the second film: ‘I was nervous going in, we all kind of were, because you don’t want to mess it up. “Can I do this and not disappoint everyone?” frankly.’

Speaking about his first encounter with his Beetlejuice transformation again, he remarked: “When I looked at myself, I thought ‘Ah, there we go’, and I realized that the narrative is not only strong but also well-executed by everyone involved. This realization somehow alleviated some of the pressure on me.”

Beetlejuice star Michael Keaton reveals why he was 'nervous' about reprising iconic role for Tim Burton's highly-anticipated sequel

Beetlejuice star Michael Keaton reveals why he was 'nervous' about reprising iconic role for Tim Burton's highly-anticipated sequel

Upon being inquired about whether it seemed like it had been 36 years, Keaton playfully quipped, “It seems more like 136 years,” causing his co-stars O’Hara (age 70) and Ryder (age 52) to chuckle in agreement.

When Roker, aged 70, observed that O’Hara’s character Delia Deetz has softened and become nicer, the Home Alone star responded: “Well, you have to. After all, how long can one keep up the energy of arguing with someone?” Keaton further commented: “It just becomes tiresome.”

About the character of Lydia Deetz, portrayed by Ryder in the movie, O’Hara mentioned: ‘Over time, I’ve developed a deep affection and admiration for this once challenging young woman who wouldn’t budge an inch. It’s because she’s grown and matured.’

Ryder expressed: “Now, I feel an immense understanding because I know what it’s like to have a daughter, as depicted by Ortega’s character, Astrid, in the sequel.”

Afterward, the actress from Stranger Things confessed, “I became quite emotional during filming. All through it, I felt incredibly attentive and focused. Truly, it was one of the most memorable and meaningful experiences in my life.”

Discussing Burton, known for movies like Edward Scissorhands and Planet of the Apes, O’Hara expressed: ‘I believe outstanding directors, such as Tim, are much like skillful manipulators – just as a wonderful parent is.’

As a lifestyle expert, I’d rephrase that as: “I make it seem like the ideas are your own, but in reality, I’ve skillfully guided you towards my desired outcome. It’s an incredibly collaborative experience, filled with energy and spontaneity – a vibrant dance of thoughts happening right here, right now.”

Ryder mentioned, “For the initial piece, that’s when I truly felt included in a collaborative effort, despite being only 15 years old. Typically, I was merely instructed on where to position myself. It held immense significance for me.”

Beetlejuice star Michael Keaton reveals why he was 'nervous' about reprising iconic role for Tim Burton's highly-anticipated sequel
Beetlejuice star Michael Keaton reveals why he was 'nervous' about reprising iconic role for Tim Burton's highly-anticipated sequel
Beetlejuice star Michael Keaton reveals why he was 'nervous' about reprising iconic role for Tim Burton's highly-anticipated sequel

As an over-the-moon fan, I couldn’t contain my excitement when the official trailer for “Beetlejuice 2” dropped in May! It was like a tantalizing sneak peek into the much-anticipated continuation of this beloved movie.

It’s been quite some time since the incidents of the initial movie, and now Lydia, portrayed by Ryder, is a mother to a teenage daughter named Astrid. She thought she would never encounter the tricky Beetlejuice again; however, her daughter stumbles upon an ad for a ‘Bio Exorcist’ in their very own home, rekindling old memories.

In the end, it’s Astrid who manages to summon Beetlejuice again by uttering his name thrice, disregarding the strict advisories from her mother. Unsurprisingly, chaos immediately follows.

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2024-08-21 18:33

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