Marilu Henner, known for her role in the hit series 'Taxi,' recently shared a pivotal moment in her career that forever altered her life. Recalling a day in September 1978, just three days after 'Taxi' premiered, Henner was in Europe with then-boyfriend John Travolta when she realized the impact of her newfound fame. Walking down the street with her 'Taxi' co-stars, they were greeted by fans shouting their character names, signaling a shift in their lives.
'Taxi' followed the lives of cab drivers at the Sunshine Cab Company, propelling the careers of stars like Danny DeVito, Tony Danza, and Judd Hirsch. Henner's portrayal of Elaine Nardo earned her five Golden Globe nominations, solidifying her place in television history.
Henner emphasized the strong bonds formed on set, referring to her co-stars as family. She highlighted the enduring friendships she maintains with the 'Taxi' cast, even organizing virtual reunions during the pandemic.
Reflecting on her connection with Travolta, Henner shared how they became friends through their work on 'Grease' and subsequent films. She praised Travolta's talent and character, foreseeing his future stardom from their first meeting.
Henner's involvement in the Chicago production of 'Grease' unknowingly contributed to its historical significance. Originating as a community theater project, 'Grease' launched the careers of many actors and inspired the iconic 1978 film starring Travolta and Olivia Newton-John.
Despite being offered a role in the 'Grease' film, Henner had to decline due to scheduling conflicts. She noted the differences between the play and movie versions, highlighting the ensemble nature of the stage production versus the star-driven film adaptation.
As 'Taxi' celebrated its 45th anniversary last year, cast members reunited to commemorate the milestone, showcasing the enduring impact of the beloved series on its stars and fans alike.
