Wait, What? Robin Williams’ Popeye Was Filmed on the Most Outrageous Set of the ’80s
In a recent revelation, former Paramount Pictures CEO Barry Diller described the set of the 1980 film Popeye, starring Robin Williams, as the “most coked-up film set” he had encountered during his tenure. This disclosure is part of Diller’s memoir, Who Knew, which chronicles his career from 1974 to 1984.
Shocking Revelations from Barry Diller’s Memoir
The details of the behind-the-scenes chaos come from Barry Diller’s memoir, Who Knew, which chronicles his decade in Hollywood from 1974 to 1984. In it, Diller pulls back the curtain on the rampant drug use that plagued several productions, but none more so than Popeye. The revelations paint a stark contrast between the innocent, family-friendly tone of the movie and the unfiltered reality of its production.
Cocaine in the Film Cans and Walkie-Talkies
Diller’s memoir doesn’t just allude to drug use, it gets specific. He recounts how film canisters shipped back to Los Angeles were reportedly used to smuggle cocaine. Even more astonishing, composer Van Dyke Parks recalled finding cocaine hidden inside a walkie-talkie. According to Diller, there was no escaping it: drug use was part of the daily routine on set. These anecdotes suggest that substance abuse wasn’t just occurring—it was deeply embedded in the production culture.
Robin Williams’ Early Struggles
Popeye marked Robin Williams’ big-screen debut after rising to fame on Mork & Mindy. At the time, Williams was already struggling with addiction—something he would speak about publicly in later years. He eventually quit cocaine following the death of his close friend John Belushi and the birth of his first child. But during the filming of Popeye, he was still grappling with the pressures of fame and a chaotic work environment.
The film was shot on location in Malta, where an entire village was constructed to resemble Popeye’s whimsical hometown, Sweethaven. While the final set looked charming, the filming process was far from smooth. The combination of substance abuse, creative tension, and logistical challenges made the shoot notoriously difficult. Nevertheless, that very set has since become a popular tourist attraction known as Popeye Village, a surreal reminder of Hollywood excess wrapped in pastel colors and seaside charm.
Hollywood Excess in the Spotlight
The disclosures from Who Knew offer a rare and raw glimpse into the unfiltered reality of Hollywood filmmaking in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Diller’s account is not meant to scandalize for the sake of headlines; instead, it reveals how unchecked indulgence and a lack of oversight could derail even the most innocent-looking productions. For many readers, it’s an eye-opening look at the stark difference between a movie’s polished exterior and its messy making.
For those curious to revisit Popeye in light of these revelations, the film is currently available on various streaming platforms. It will also be shown in 35mm as part of the “Robert Altman at 100” retrospective at the Berkeley Art Museum this summer (June 13 to August 30). Watching the film now, it’s hard not to see it through the lens of its troubled production—a whimsical story shadowed by chaos behind the scenes.
The story of Popeye is more than just a quirky footnote in Robin Williams’ career—it’s a case study in the unpredictability of Hollywood. While the film itself remains a cult favorite for many, the revelations from Barry Diller’s memoir add a compelling layer to its legacy. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the real drama happens when the cameras stop rolling.
Explore Popeye Village by Boat: Self-Drive or Private Charter Options
For those looking to experience Popeye Village from the sea, Bluewaves Watersports offers two excellent options departing from Marfa Bay:
🚤 Self-Drive Boat Rentals: Navigate at Your Own Pace
Ideal for those with some boating experience, Bluewaves Watersports provides a range of self-drive boats accommodating 2 to 8 passengers. While a boating license isn’t required, drivers should have practical boating knowledge. Each rental includes a safety briefing and a test drive to ensure comfort and confidence on the water. Please note that fuel is not included in the rental price and will be charged based on usage.
🛥️ Private Boat Rides with Skipper: Relax and Enjoy the Journey
For a more leisurely experience, consider booking a private boat ride with a professional skipper. This option is perfect for those without boating experience or anyone looking to relax while an expert handles navigation. Bluewaves Watersports offers various boat sizes, accommodating groups of 5 to 10 people, with trip durations of 2, 3, or 4 hours. These excursions often include visits to nearby attractions such as the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and the scenic caves of Comino.
