Todd Bridges Reflects on His Relationship with Gary Coleman
In a recent appearance on The Patrick LabyorSheaux with Patrick Labyorteaux, Todd Bridges opened up about his complex relationship with his Diff’rent Strokes co-star, Gary Coleman. Their bond, which was forged on the set of the iconic sitcom, was not without its challenges, largely influenced by external pressures, particularly from Coleman’s father, Willie Coleman.
The Impact of Willie Coleman
Bridges recalled how Willie Coleman played a significant role in creating tension between the two young actors. He described a particularly heated moment when, at just 13 years old, Coleman slapped him during an argument. "I slapped him back," Bridges recounted, highlighting the youthful volatility that sometimes characterized their interactions. This incident was emblematic of the underlying issues that Willie Coleman fostered, believing that his son was the true star of the show.
Age and Rivalry
Despite a mere three-year age difference, the dynamics of fame and parental influence complicated their relationship. Willie Coleman’s insistence that Gary was more important to the show than Bridges led to a rivalry that affected their camaraderie. Bridges noted the absurdity of the situation, recalling how discussions about firing him for slapping Gary were met with resistance from the show’s producers. "They were like, ‘Willie, we can’t fire Willis. The show is about Willis and Arnold,’" he explained, emphasizing the show’s foundational premise.
A Different Perspective on Stardom
While many teenagers might have been consumed by the desire for stardom, Bridges took a more relaxed approach. "I was okay with that," he said, referring to Gary’s status as the star of the show. "I got all the girls, so I didn’t care." This lighthearted perspective allowed him to navigate the pressures of fame without feeling overshadowed.
Separation After the Show
After Diff’rent Strokes ended, the interference from Willie Coleman continued to affect their relationship. Bridges shared that he and Gary lost touch during a tumultuous period in both of their lives. "Willie Coleman separated us for a few years," he lamented, reflecting on how external factors can disrupt even the strongest of friendships.
Reuniting and Rebuilding
Fortunately, Bridges and Coleman eventually reconnected, finding solace in their shared experiences. "When we reunited, we became very, very close," he said, noting that Gary had distanced himself from his parents, realizing the detrimental impact they had on his life. This newfound bond allowed them to support each other through their individual struggles.
A Lasting Legacy
Tragically, Gary Coleman passed away on May 28, 2010, after suffering a brain hemorrhage. Despite the challenges they faced, Bridges cherishes the memories of their time together and the deep connection they ultimately forged. Their story serves as a poignant reminder of how external influences can shape relationships, but also how resilience and understanding can lead to healing and reconnection.