In the entertainment industry, everyone knows Jerry Weintraub, and Jerry knows everyone who matters. He discovered John Denver. He produced Oceans 11 (and 12 and 13) and more than a few Karate Kids — as well as Robert Altman’s Nashville. Before that he staged tours for Led Zeppelin, Bob Dylan, Frank Sinatra, and Elvis. Kurt Andersen talks with Weintraub about his career and a new documentary, His Way, that airs on HBO this month.
Bonus Track: Four Degrees of Jerry WeintraubIn our full interview, Jerry Weintraub tells Kurt that director Robert Altman is the person who convinced him to become a producer. But just how he met Altman is quite a story in itself, with a cast of characters that includes a former president and a folk music superstar.
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Bonus Track: Jerry Weintraub on The Karate KidJerry Weintraub tells Kurt why he initially wanted anyone but Pat Morita for the role of Mr. Miyagi.
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