George Clooney and Noah Wyle, former co-stars from the iconic medical drama ER, reunited at the AARP Movies for Grownups Awards on Saturday, marking more than three decades since ER first aired. Highlighting a powerful George Clooney ER reunion, Wyle honored Clooney with the Best Actor award, celebrating his transformative work in Noah Baumbach’s film Jay Kelly and reflecting on their longstanding connection.
Celebrating Accomplishments at the AARP Movies for Grownups Awards
Noah Wyle presented the prestigious Best Actor award to George Clooney during the ceremony, which drew notable attention to both actors’ impressive careers. As he took the stage, Wyle described how their professional and personal relationship has evolved over three decades on and off screen. Wyle’s introduction offered insight into the authenticity and growth he’s witnessed in Clooney during their time together.
“We all keep aces up our sleeves, rehearsed mannerisms and behaviors that favor us, make us look cool or beautiful or mysterious. And when you work closely with someone and know them for over 30 years, you get to know their tricks and their shtick pretty well,”
Noah Wyle, Actor
“But true artists reinvent themselves continually, and they have the courage to abandon the tried-and-true gimmick for the vulnerable discomfort of honest expression,”
Noah Wyle, Actor
Wyle praised Clooney for not just relying on his established charisma but for taking risks in pursuit of genuine artistry, crediting him with continually seeking new ways to connect with audiences. This recent achievement in Jay Kelly, directed by Noah Baumbach, was pointed out as another chapter in Clooney’s artistic journey. The film, which is Baumbach’s fourteenth, focuses on a movie star, portrayed by Clooney, who struggles to repair his relationship with his daughter after years of self-centeredness.
“They embark on journeys to reach the higher levels of self-awareness, to arrive at the most organic interpretations. Sometimes these journeys are met with success, sometimes they are not, but they are never taken without risk, and they are what separates the artist from the celebrity,”
Noah Wyle, Actor
“With his performance in Jay Kelly, George has completed another successful journey of artistic reinvention, and creating yet another unforgettable character,”
Noah Wyle, Actor
According to Wyle, Clooney’s ability to deliver a nuanced performance in a role where his character’s actions have caused pain to those around him is nothing short of magic.
“Through the chaos that ensues, George pulls off quite a feat of magic. He makes us care and root for a guy who leaves damage in his wake,”
Noah Wyle, Actor
George Clooney Reflects on His Career and Collaboration
Upon receiving the award, Clooney provided his own heartfelt remarks, expressing gratitude for the recognition and reflecting humorously about the “Movies for Grownups” honor. Clooney acknowledged his fortune in working with renowned talent, specifically highlighting past collaborations that remain significant in his life and career.
“Well, thank you to the AARP. I have to say, ‘Movies for Grownups’ just means, you know, old people,”
George Clooney, Actor
“I got to be in a film with a really wonderful filmmaker. Noah, the script is beautiful. I couldn’t believe my luck that I got to play the part,”
George Clooney, Actor
Clooney spoke about his early acting days, sharing memories from his debut in Grizzly 2: Revenge alongside Laura Dern, a film that was only released decades later. He noted the enduring bonds formed during those early years, and the shared history that continues to shape his outlook.
“It’s so embarrassing, because it comes out, I’m getting like s— reviews 40 years later, but we have been family ever since then,”
George Clooney, Actor
Enduring Bonds from ER and Beyond
The reunion at the awards also served as a reminder of the lasting connections forged on the set of ER. Wyle, who played Dr. John Carter throughout most of the show‘s run except for a break between seasons thirteen and fourteen, and Clooney, who famously portrayed Dr. Doug Ross and exited after five seasons but returned for a memorable reunion episode, have both spoken about the depth of relationships developed during their time on the series.
“Those bonds that were forged during that show are so lovely and intimate that I feel like we don’t have to be totally present in each other’s lives to be able to have a context for each other’s lives,”
Noah Wyle, Actor
Wyle commented on the value Clooney holds in his life, appreciating how Clooney has remained an important influence and support over the years. The event provided another opportunity for the two actors to connect in a meaningful way and for fans to see the ongoing impact of ER on their lives.
“He’s been a real touchstone figure in my life and one who seems to pop up with great regularity at the right moments,”
Noah Wyle, Actor
“So I’m honored to be here to share this one tonight,”
Noah Wyle, Actor
Lasting Legacy and Anticipated Future Collaborations
The George Clooney ER reunion underscored the enduring influence of the series and the meaningful relationships it fostered among its cast. With continued recognition for their work, as seen at the AARP Movies for Grownups Awards, both Clooney and Wyle demonstrate how professional achievements and personal bonds can last for decades. Fans of ER, and the industry alike, remain eager for any future projects that might once again bring these accomplished artists together.
