Bill Murray Says 'No' to 'Ghostbusters 3'
"Ghostbusters 3" is in the works, but fans may notice that Bill Murray is missing.
Murray has tormented fans by issuing statements saying that he will and will not appear in the new movie. In a new interview with Dan Aykroyd, one of the creators and actors of the "Ghostbusters" franchise, Murray will definitely not appear in the new film.
Reports have stated that Murray received a copy of the new script but shredded it immediately. In an interview with Empire magazine, Aykroyd puts that rumor to rest. "Bill Murray is not capable of such behavior. This is simply something that would not be in his nature. We have a deep, private personal relationship that transcends business."
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"We communicate frequently, and his portion on the involvement in 'Ghostbusters 3' has been made clear, and I respect that," Aykroyd added. In a previous interview with Dennis Miller, he stated, "Yes, we will be doing the movie, and hopefully with Mr. Murray. That is our hope. We have an excellent script."
"What we have to remember is that 'Ghostbusters' is bigger than any one component, although Billy was absolutely the lead," Aykroyd noted. The "Ghostbusters" movie debuted in 1984 to rave reviews and earned the highest box office revenue, making it the most successful movie of 1984.
Murray was not even written into the original cast; he took over the role of Peter Venkman after John Belushi died of an overdose. Other original cast members included Eddie Murphy and John Candy who both had prior commitments and were replaced by Ernie Hudson and Rick Moranis, respectively.
A sequel followed the original film in 1989, which did not achieve the success of 1984. In 2009, "Ghostbusters: The Video Game" was released and generated more buzz about the possibility of a new movie. But many are wondering if "Ghostbusters 3" can live up to the hype and success of the original movie, especially when one of the leads will be gone.
Fans have expressed their feelings about Murray's refusal on numerous media sites. Gary Garber II wrote, "Without Bill Murray I wouldn't watch it. With him, it would be a definite must see." Rob Schafer asked, "Dear Mr. Murray, please reconsider." Only time will tell if Murray will change his mind and give the fans what they want.
