Hugh Jackman took a trip down memory lane recently at the Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony, where he honored Kevin Feige, the mastermind behind Marvel Studios. Amidst the celebration, Jackman presented Feige with a $15 gift card to a steakhouse, making for a memorable and personal touch. This wasn’t just any gift card, though—Jackman saw it as the perfect tribute to their shared history.
The connection between Jackman and Feige dates back to the early 2000s, when Jackman was vying for the role of Wolverine in the original X-Men film. It was a pivotal moment for both men, though it started with a less-than-stellar audition. Jackman reminisced about his initial tryout, sharing with the audience—a star-studded gathering that included Emma Corrin, Chris Evans, Kathryn Hahn, David Harbour, Brie Larson, Simu Liu, Chris Pratt, Ke Huy Quan, Ryan Reynolds, and Sebastian Stan—that things didn’t go as planned.
Feige, then an assistant producer, was instrumental in Jackman’s journey from struggling actor to a superhero icon. After the audition, Feige offered Jackman a ride to the airport. Along the way, he made an unexpected detour to a restaurant, insisting Jackman needed to eat before heading home.
Jackman recounted, “He just insists, says I want to give you a steak. So we go into this steakhouse, and, you know, I'm an actor. I'm in. It's free steak. Totally.” Jackman was touched by the gesture, noting, “This is a class act.”
Despite his doubts about landing the role, Jackman did eventually become Wolverine, and his friendship with Feige deepened over the years. Feige proved to be a supportive friend, even slipping comic books Jackman’s way since Jackman wasn’t very familiar with them at the time. Jackman joked about Feige’s faith in him, “I just figured this guy is never gonna make it in showbiz.”
In a heartfelt "full-circle moment," Jackman honored Feige with the steakhouse gift card during the Walk of Fame ceremony. The card was specifically for Maestro's Steakhouse and was humorously described as "valid on Tuesdays between 3 and 3:30."
Jackman couldn’t resist adding a playful twist, saying, “And I honestly would go with you, but I'm kind of like a massive movie star now. Wouldn't look good for me.” The remark was met with laughter and applause, underscoring the camaraderie and respect between the two.
The ceremony was more than just a celebration of Feige’s achievements; it was a testament to the enduring friendships and connections that are often formed behind the scenes in Hollywood. Jackman’s tribute was a reminder of how simple acts of kindness can have a lasting impact, especially in an industry as challenging as showbiz.
Feige’s rise from assistant producer to the head of Marvel Studios is a remarkable story of dedication and vision. His work has transformed the superhero genre, with hits like Daredevil in 2003 to this month's Deadpool & Wolverine. The Walk of Fame ceremony was a moment to celebrate not just his professional success but also his personal relationships that have been instrumental in his journey.
In the end, Jackman’s steakhouse gift card was more than just a token of appreciation. It was a nod to their shared history and a symbol of the many ways people support each other behind the scenes. As Hollywood continues to celebrate its stars, moments like these remind us of the genuine connections that underpin the glitz and glamour of the industry.
Login