Maureen Dowd has spent decades interviewing some of the most powerful, talented, and influential figures in entertainment, politics, and beyond. Her latest book, “Notorious,” offers an inside look at these encounters, revealing both the charm and the flaws of those in the spotlight. Through her fearless approach to questioning, she captures raw, unfiltered moments that reveal the true nature of her subjects.
From a surprisingly cranky Kevin Costner to Uma Thurman’s resilience, here are five revealing stories that stand out from her interviews.
Kevin Costner’s Short Temper
Dowd once had a crush on Kevin Costner—until she met him in 1991. As they walked through the French Quarter in New Orleans for an interview, Costner’s reaction to a group of elderly fans changed everything.
As a few women politely asked for a photo, Costner, clearly irritated, snapped, “Fine, but can’t you see I’m in the middle of an interview?”
Dowd described it as watching someone “kick kittens.” The conversation didn’t improve when Costner assumed she would replay their interview for her friends. She quickly responded, “I interviewed Paul Newman and didn’t feel the need to share it, so I think I can resist the urge with yours.”
Jane Fonda’s Missed Chance With Marvin Gaye
During a 2020 interview, Jane Fonda opened up about one of her biggest regrets—not having a romantic moment with Marvin Gaye. When asked if she had ever been interested in Che Guevara, she dismissed the idea but admitted she did turn down Gaye.
“I was married at the time, and I just didn’t go there,” she shared. “Later, I found out he had my photo on his fridge. I didn’t know until after he had passed.”
Dowd playfully asked if Gaye had used the phrase sexual healing as a pickup line. Fonda laughed but confirmed he never said it.
Paul Newman’s Famous Eyes Were a Burden
Paul Newman was undeniably one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars, but for him, the constant focus on his striking blue eyes became exhausting.
In a 1986 interview, he vented his frustration, saying, “I’ve worked for years to prove myself, and yet people still just want me to take off my sunglasses to admire my eye color.”
He humorously added, “It’s like asking someone to open their mouth to check their gums or their shirt to see their chest. What am I supposed to do? Bat my lashes? I usually just say, ‘I’d take them off, but my pants might fall down.’”
Uma Thurman’s Near-Tragic Film Set Incident
Uma Thurman shared a harrowing experience from the set of Kill Bill, in which she was pressured to drive a faulty car for a scene. Despite voicing concerns, she felt compelled to go through with it.
“I knew something was off with the car,” she recalled. “But I was told I had to do it. The next thing I knew, I crashed. My legs were crushed under me, and I thought I’d never walk again.”
She confronted Quentin Tarantino afterward, leading to an explosive argument. “I accused him of nearly killing me, and he was furious. He didn’t believe he had put me in danger.”
Daniel Craig’s Surprising Bedroom Rule
In a 2013 interview, Daniel Craig revealed an unusual household rule he and Rachel Weisz follow—no devices in the bedroom.
“If the iPad comes to bed, unless you’re watching something very specific, it’s a romance killer,” he quipped.
His unexpected honesty showed a more personal, candid side of the action star.
Dowd’s collection “Notorious” peels back the polished public personas of celebrities, giving readers a glimpse into their real personalities. These interviews highlight moments of humor, regret, and resilience—proving that even the biggest stars have their own quirks and flaws.