Bill Murray says Gene Hackman was ‘really rough on’ Wes Anderson in The Royal Tenenbaums - Murray recalled having to ‘step in’ and ‘defend’ Anderson

Bill Murray delivered an honest remembrance of his “The Royal Tenenbaums” co-star Gene Hackman on Thursday, calling him a “brilliant” actor but saying he was a “tough nut” who was “really rough” on director Wes Anderson.

In the wake of Gene Hackman ’s passing, many have shared their memories of the legendary actor, reflecting on his remarkable career and presence in Hollywood. Among those remembering him is Bill Murray ,

It wasn't his final role, but Hackman's turn in Wes Anderson's family drama is the perfect summation of his talents, writes Empire's John Nugent.

Bill Murray has paid an honest tribute to Gene Hackman. Murray described Hackman as one of the greats of the acting profession after his death was confirmed on Thursday, but said he could be a “tough nut” to work with.

His visual signature is so distinct it's practically a genre unto itself, but—sorry, TikTokers— Anderson's work is about more than dollhouse-meticulous production design and rigorous framing. We've ranked the best films by an acclaimed director who remains somehow underappreciated.

And he was really difficult, we can say it now, but he was a tough guy. Older, great actors do not give young directors much of a chance. They’re really rough on them,” said Bill Murray.

The cast of The Royal Tenenbaums remains one of Hollywood's most iconic onscreen families. Wes Anderson’s 2001 film follows the lives of three gifted siblings — Chas (Ben Stiller), Richie (Luke Wilson) and Margot Tenenbaum (Gwyneth Paltrow) — who are reunited with their eccentric estranged father,

He admitted that the late actor was "a little irritable" during filming but ultimately came around to director Wes Anderson and the movie.

Wes Anderson makes great movies and so does Gene Hackman," the actor tells Drew Barrymore. "You're going to get a good movie.”

Gene Hackman's co-stars walked away from filming 'The Royal Tenenbaums' with memories of the famed Hollywood star.

Bill Murray (right) said he used to have to ‘step in’ to ‘defend’ Wes Anderson from ‘rough’ Gene Hackman (left) while filming ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’ (Getty Images) He further ...