Better Late Than Never (1983)

Interesting facts

Better Late Than Never is a 1983 British comedy film directed by Bryan Forbes and starring David Niven, Art Carney and Maggie Smith. The soundtrack features songs by Henry Mancini and Noël Coward.

Production

Forbes previously offered Carney's role to William Holden, whose agent persuaded him to decline because the fee offered was too small. During the shoot Holden died following an accident while drinking, and Forbes wrote in 1992 that if Holden had made the film he "might have been alive today." Bob Hope was also approached for the role, and Ralph Richardson for the part of the lawyer (ultimately played by Lionel Jeffries).

The working title was Ménage à trois. Filming took place near Niven's home on Cap Ferrat. It was the first time Niven sang on screen, and the last film where his own voice would be heard. Forbes and producer David Niven Jr. both noticed the star's difficulty walking and speaking during production; when it persisted, he underwent tests and was diagnosed with ALS.

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