Andrew McCarthy's Real-Life Inspiration for Weekend at Bernie's

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Andrew McCarthy has a surprising story behind his 1989 hit movie, Weekend at Bernie's.

In his new book, Who Needs Friends, he shares how his high school English teacher named Eddie

became the real-life basis for the character Larry.

Wilson, the guy who pretends his dead boss is still alive.

McCarthy met Eddie during his senior year.

Fresh out of Columbia University, Eddie stood out with his retro 50 suits, motorcycle rides, and life in Greenwich Village.

He seemed worlds away from McCarthy's New Jersey suburb, and the team quickly looked up to him.

The admiration limb McCarthy to copy Eddie's baggy thrift store clothes and habits like carrying folded newspapers.

He even brought that style to his role as the brooding rider in St. Elmo's Fire.

For Weekend at Bernie's, McCarthy imagined Eddie as a total goofball to shape Larry,

who teams up with a coworker for wild schemes at their bosses.

Beach House. The comedy spawned a sequel in 1993.

These days, McCarthy keeps busy directing shows like Orange is the New Black,

and reflecting on friendships through his books, blending his acting past, with fresh insights.