“Truly Breaks My Heart”: Richard Dreyfuss Bows Out of ‘Jaws’ Reunion Event for Unspecified Reason

Jaws (1975) was the ultimate summer blockbuster movie. Based on a novel by Peter Benchley and brilliantly directed by Steven Spielberg, it had everything. Creepy music, a frighteningly realistic "shark," plus terrific performances by a trio of gifted actors—Robert Shaw, Roy Scheider, and Richard Dreyfuss. It was man pitted against the fierce might of nature. Of course, the good guys won. For Dreyfuss, 78, Jaws was a career-making milestone. As Matt Hooper, the intrepid oceanographer, he was unforgettable. (Sadly, both Scheider and Shaw have passed away.)

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In fact, the 1970s were actually his heyday. He also starred in classic films like American Graffiti, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and The Goodbye Girl. Dreyfuss took home an Academy Award for Best Actor for that sweet Goodbye Girl role. More recently, the actor has fans worried and disappointed because he just bowed out of a Jaws reunion event. Richard Dreyfuss gave an apology but no explanation.

"Impossible for Me To Be There in Person"

Writing on Instagram, Richard Dreyfuss said he was very sorry to be unable to attend the event. Nevertheless, he omitted an explanation for dropping out. He wrote in part, "To all the incredible fans, my JAWS cast family, and everyone involved in making this reunion possible — I want to share how deeply grateful I am for the love and excitement surrounding this special event."

He added, "It truly breaks my heart that I won't be able to attend the reunion at The Hollywood Show May 29th & 30th. Please know this was never the outcome I hoped for. Due to circumstances completely beyond my control, it has become impossible for me to be there in person."

Dreyfuss went on, "My heart is absolutely with my fellow cast members who will be attending. Sharing this journey with them has been one of the greatest blessings of my life, and I know they'll make this celebration unforgettable. I hope everyone attending gives them the warmest welcome and all the love they deserve!"

The Event Is Postponed

On

Facebook, the organizers of the Hollywood event announced that the occasion has been postponed. This is presumably due to the absence of Richard Dreyfuss. They apologized for the inconvenience and said new dates are "coming soon." The message also thanked people for their "understanding and support."