Morgan Freeman became the voice of Zach Braff’s voicemail after the two actors made a bet while working together. This unusual outcome was revealed by Braff during an appearance on The View on March 2. Their collaboration spanned two films, 2017’s Going in Style and 2023’s A Good Person, both projects that brought them closer professionally and personally.
Zach Braff’s Story Behind the Bet and Voicemail
On the March 2 episode of The View, Zach Braff explained how the bet with Morgan Freeman began while directing the veteran actor. Braff, now in his 50s, shared the playful interaction with the 88-year-old Freeman, highlighting how their friendly competition led to Freeman lending his distinctive voice for Braff’s outgoing voicemail message for years.
Morgan lost a bet to me, and for years, he was my outgoing voicemail message,
Braff recalled.
For years, my message was, ‘Hello, this is Morgan Freeman. Zach Braff can’t come to the phone right now,’
he added, imitating Freeman’s iconic deep tone.
Braff’s efforts to involve Freeman in his work were not guaranteed successes. He admitted to Forbes that convincing Freeman, known for selective roles in established films, was a challenge.
On top of not doing small indies, he doesn’t do films that aren’t set up yet,
Braff said.
I just didn’t think there was any chance he was going to say yes, but my father always used to say, ‘You have to try, and there’s no harm in asking,’ so I did.
Collaboration on Films and Overcoming Challenges
Morgan Freeman’s participation in A Good Person marked another successful collaboration with Braff. The process, however, included challenges, particularly due to COVID-19 restrictions during filming in New Jersey. Braff described the moment Freeman accepted the role during their initial script discussion.
I just thought, ‘He’s given me a courtesy call.’ I picked it up, and he didn’t even say hello,
Braff recounted.
He just said, ‘I see myself on every page of the script.’ I said, ‘Does that mean yes?’ and he said, ‘Yes, that means yes.’ That was thrilling, but then we had to figure out how to make it in COVID times in New Jersey.
Zach Braff’s Experience Working with Other Hollywood Icons
Beyond his projects with Freeman, Braff shared insights into directing Harrison Ford in the Apple TV+ series Shrinking. During his interview, Braff reflected on their dynamic and Ford’s seemingly gruff exterior that softens during their interactions.
I told him a story I probably can’t tell here, but I love making him laugh,
Braff said.
He’s just a lovely man, Harrison. He’s gruff. Very gruff. But once you get past that, we have a good time together.
Host Sara Haines commented on how remarkable it must be to direct such a Hollywood legend. Braff acknowledged that he treats famous individuals like Freeman and Ford as regular people, which helps ease tensions and foster collaboration.
He noted that these stars are accustomed to people acting awkwardly around them, but his grounded approach helps “relax them.”
The Significance of These Collaborations and What’s Next
The playful bet between Freeman and Braff not only shows their camaraderie but also highlights the mutual respect and warmth that fuel their collaborative efforts. Braff’s persistence and respectful approach led to remarkable partnerships with two major figures—Freeman and Ford—through films and television projects alike.
Currently, season 3 of Shrinking is airing on Apple TV+, and Braff has reprised his role in the Scrubs revival, which premiered its 10th season in late February. These projects continue to showcase Braff’s versatility as an actor and director, building on the unique professional relationships he has cultivated over time.
