Ariana Longson
Updated on: October 15, 2024 6:17 am GMT
As the film industry remembers the 25th anniversary of “The Sixth Sense,” Haley Joel Osment reflects on his unforgettable time working with Bruce Willis. The young actor, who was just 10 years old when he starred as Cole Sear in M. Night Shyamalan’s iconic horror film, shares cherished memories that contribute to the film’s legacy.
Voicemails That Still Resonate
In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Osment recounted the special bond he formed with Willis during and after filming. He revealed that the veteran actor often left voicemails for him in the years following the film’s release. “I heard from [Bruce] a lot after it came out,” Osment said, reminiscing about the unexpected calls he would receive after school. “Sometimes I would just come home, and the answering machine would be blinking, and it’d be him going like, ‘Hey, Haley Joel. Just saying hi.’”
These messages weren’t just random check-ins. They often came in anticipation of their travels together to promote the film in places like Japan. The fondness in Osment’s voice is palpable; he recalls those moments with a warmth that speaks volumes about their relationship.
A Lasting Impact
Osment’s experience with Willis on the set of “The Sixth Sense” left a significant mark on his young career. Not only was this his first time working with a major Hollywood star, but it also allowed him to witness an actor he admired up close. “I had worked with Tom Hanks before on ‘Forrest Gump,’ but at that point, I was old enough to have seen a lot of Bruce’s movies, which added a lot of excitement,” he explained. Osment emphasized how working with someone like Willis, who had a unique persona, influenced his understanding of acting.
More Than Just a Movie Star
Haley Joel Osment described Willis as a charismatic figure who maintained a relaxed atmosphere on set. “He did everything in such a cool way and had such charisma… it made a huge impression on me because that was the first gigantic celebrity that I’d worked with at an age where I was aware of his stardom,” he shared.
Despite being a major box office draw known for action-packed roles in movies like “Die Hard,” Willis’s performance in “The Sixth Sense” showcased a different side. Osment noted that Willis adopted a more subdued and academic demeanor in his character, Dr. Malcolm Crowe. “One of the things that makes it such a cool performance — you can sense all that beneath the surface,” Osment explained, highlighting the complexity of Willis’s portrayal.
Remembering Bruce Willis Today
Today, the film world is mindful of the challenges that Bruce Willis faces. His family announced in March 2022 that he had been diagnosed with aphasia, a condition that affects communication abilities. Unfortunately, it has since progressed to frontotemporal dementia. Osment spoke candidly about this development, expressing both concern and nostalgia. “I know we preserved those [old voicemail tapes]. I have not spoken to him since the news of his health in recent years,” he said.
His reflections serve as a reminder of how impactful one actor can be on another’s career. The warmth and support shown by Willis during those formative years continue to resonate with Osment even now.
Legacy of “The Sixth Sense”
The success of “The Sixth Sense” is undeniable, having grossed over $672 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 1999. Its story, which skillfully interwove themes of fear, isolation, and connection, struck a chord with audiences, elevating it to classic status.
Both Osment and Willis played crucial roles in bringing this intricate tale to life. As Osment reflects on his time with Willis, he underscores the film’s significance not just as a horror story but as a means of exploring deeper human experiences.
Looking Ahead
As fans celebrate the 25th anniversary of “The Sixth Sense,” it’s important to also celebrate the connections that were formed during its creation. The voicemails that Bruce Willis left for Haley Joel Osment serve as a testament to the friendships that often grow within the film industry, while “The Sixth Sense” continues to inspire a new generation of filmmakers and fans alike.
Osment’s warm memories of Willis give us a peek into who he really was, showing that Hollywood is more than just fancy lights and red carpets. It’s also about the friendships and moments we share. The legacy of “The Sixth Sense” isn’t just its surprising ending; it reminds us how important teamwork, friendship, and creativity are in making movies.
