Caddyshack Star Claims Cocaine Was Budgeted on Set
Actor Michael O'Keefe claims cocaine was accounted for in the 1980 film's budget and admits to using the drug before filming certain scenes.
Quick facts
- Michael O'Keefe played the character Danny Noonan in the 1980 film Caddyshack.
- The movie was filmed over 11 weeks during the fall of 1979.
- O'Keefe states he quit using cocaine immediately following the production of the film.
Why it matters
The revelations from O'Keefe highlight the stark difference between the production standards of the late 1970s and contemporary Hollywood safety and labor practices. While anecdotal, his account underscores the normalization of illicit substances in the entertainment industry during that decade. Whether similar accounting practices were common in other productions of that era remains unconfirmed.
Michael O'Keefe, who starred as Danny Noonan in the 1980 comedy Caddyshack, has shared new details about the production environment during filming. In a recent interview, the 71-year-old actor claimed that cocaine was prevalent on set and alleged the drug was even included in the film's budget under a miscellaneous item category.
What happened on the set of Caddyshack?
Reflecting on the production, which took place over 11 weeks in the fall of 1979, O'Keefe described the atmosphere as reflective of the era. He noted that drug use was common at the time, stating that some individuals treated the substance similarly to toothpaste in their daily routines.
O'Keefe admitted to using cocaine before shooting specific scenes for the film. While he acknowledged his participation at the time, he expressed regret when viewing the footage today. He stated that those moments are not his favorite memories and that he is not happy with his actions during the production.
Why is this trending?
Search interest in the classic film has spiked following O'Keefe's public comments. The actor clarified that his involvement with the drug ended with the completion of the movie. He described the experience as a realization that the drug was a harmful influence, despite its perceived popularity in the 1970s.
What happens next?
The film, which featured a cast including Ted Knight, Chevy Chase, Bill Murray, and Rodney Dangerfield, remains a staple of 1980s comedy. O'Keefe's comments provide a candid look at the behind-the-scenes culture of the production, though no further official statements from other cast members or production staff have been released at the time of writing.
Frequently asked questions
What did Michael O'Keefe claim about Caddyshack?
Michael O'Keefe claimed that cocaine was widespread on the set of the 1980 film and alleged that the drug was accounted for in the movie's budget under a miscellaneous expense category.
Did Michael O'Keefe use drugs while filming?
Yes. O'Keefe admitted to using cocaine before filming certain scenes for the movie. He stated that he regrets these actions and can see the effects when watching the film today.
When was Caddyshack filmed?
Caddyshack was filmed over an 11-week period during the fall of 1979. It was subsequently released to theaters in 1980.
Who starred in Caddyshack?
The film starred Michael O'Keefe alongside Ted Knight, Chevy Chase, Bill Murray, and Rodney Dangerfield. The story was set at the fictional Bushwood Country Club.
Did O'Keefe continue using drugs after filming?
No. O'Keefe reported that the filming of Caddyshack was the last time he used cocaine. He stated that he realized the drug was a terrible thing to get involved with.
Is there a formal investigation into the film's budget?
There is no information regarding a formal investigation. O'Keefe's comments are anecdotal recollections of his experience on set, and details regarding specific financial records were not available at the time of writing.
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Last checked Oct 4, 2026 at 9:30 PM. Trends move fast, so details may change. How we work
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