Actor Danny DeVito reminisced about the raucous post-filming parties during the 1980s run of the sitcom "Taxi," describing them as all-night "rager[s]" that included both "crudité and cocaine."
Speaking on the "All the Smoke" podcast, DeVito recalled that the celebrations were a regular occurrence after wrapping up the day's work on the show.
"We would have like, crudité and cocaine ... basically it was the eighties. It was like, really crazy," DeVito said. "We had to be to work on Monday at noon. That's all we had to care about."
The parties attracted a notable guest list that extended beyond the "Taxi" cast, with visitors including Robin Williams, Michael Jackson, and cast members from "Laverne & Shirley." DeVito mentioned that musicians like Michael Jackson would observe the proceedings from a private booth.
"John Belushi, you know, people from 'SNL' in the early days," DeVito added, listing other celebrity attendees.
The parties would commence immediately after filming concluded, often around 10:30 or 11 p.m., with music playing until sunrise.
DeVito, who gained widespread recognition as the abrasive Louie De Palma on "Taxi" from 1978 to 1983, characterized the show's writing staff as exceptionally dedicated and talented. "And it was one of the greatest experiences for the beginning of anybody's career, because you were working with writers who were nose to the grindstone, never give up, dedicated, funny a-- people. And they never let you down. And they work until an hour before the show with you."
His role on "Taxi" earned DeVito an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe, marking a significant breakthrough in his career. Following "Taxi," DeVito has maintained a diverse career as an actor, director, and producer, with notable projects including "Twins," "Batman Returns," and "Matilda." He also stars as Frank Reynolds in the long-running series "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia."