In a candid interview, actor Kieran Culkin revealed an audacious prank he played on fellow actor Mark Ruffalo during a theater production. Culkin admitted to swapping a prop joint with real marijuana, leading to unexpected reactions from the cast and crew. While some actors found humor in the situation, others were less amused. The incident has left lasting memories for all involved, highlighting both the thrill and potential risks of such antics.
The story unfolds through two distinct phases: the initial prank and its aftermath, followed by Culkin's reflections on his maturation as an actor and person. Culkin’s admission offers a glimpse into the unpredictable world of live theater and the sometimes mischievous nature of young performers.
A Mischievous Opening Night
Culkin recounted an impulsive decision made when he was just 17 years old, during the opening night of James Lapine’s play The Moment When. He replaced a prop joint with actual marijuana, setting off a chain of events that caught everyone off guard. Initially filled with regret, Culkin was surprised by the positive reception from his co-stars. Ruffalo embraced the experience, while others like Phyllis Newman reminisced about past encounters with marijuana.
That evening, Culkin handed over the real joint, only to be met with mixed reactions. Some cast members had never tried marijuana before, while others hadn’t indulged in decades. The stage manager, however, was far from pleased. She sternly demanded the joint back, emphasizing that such behavior should not interfere with professional responsibilities. Culkin sheepishly complied, learning a valuable lesson about the consequences of youthful pranks. Despite the chaos, the performance continued, and surprisingly, Ruffalo received glowing reviews for his portrayal.
Growing Wiser with Time
Years later, Culkin reflected on this episode, acknowledging that maturity has tempered his inclination for mischief. During a West End production of Kenneth Lonergan’s This Is Our Youth, he considered repeating the prank but was met with stern warnings from co-star Colin Hanks. Eventually, Culkin did attempt a similar stunt near the end of the run, but it backfired spectacularly. The actor struggled to roll the joint due to nerves, causing it to fall apart on stage. Fortunately, they had a backup plan with a pre-rolled fake joint, averting further disaster.
Ruffalo also shared his side of the story in 2020, recalling the moment without naming Culkin. He described the exaggerated acting required on stage and how the real joint led to an intense experience. Although he termed it "the worst thing" he ever did, Ruffalo couldn't help but acknowledge the irony that it resulted in career-best reviews. Culkin’s journey from a reckless teenager to a seasoned actor underscores the importance of learning from one's mistakes and growing wiser with age.