A couple of things have cementedKurt Russellas one of the biggest stars in Hollywood.
He also has an affable demeanor, rugged good looks, and an all-American smile.
What is ‘Overboard’ About?
Image via Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Russell plays Dean Proffitt, a carpenter/handyman andthe father of four young boys.
With his wife recently deceased, he struggles as a single father.
But Dean sees an attractive blonde who could be a new mother to his children.
Image via MGM
He brings her home, renames her “Annie,” and convinces her that she is his wife.
The real-life case is nowhere near as charming as the rom-com classic.
Russell shines as a desperate man jumping through hoops to keep the ruse alive.
Though they never married, the longevity of their relationship is unheard of in the entertainment industry.
The two had already worked together inSwing Shift,so they had an established whimsical rapport.
Before that, she had proven comedic bona fides from her television days onLaugh-In.
Image via Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Russell honed his timing in light fare likeUsed CarsandThe Best of Times.
The End Justifies the Means - Kind Of?
It makes for a beautiful 80s film that is Russell’s best romantic comedy.
A cruel but beautiful heiress mocks and cheats a hired carpenter. When she gets amnesia after an accident, he decides to introduce her to regular life by convincing her that they’re husband and wife.
