20th May 2023, Mumbai: In an unexpected and shocking turn of events, legendary director Quentin Tarantino has revealed the death of Rick Dalton, the iconic character played by Leonardo DiCaprio in his much praised movie “Once Upon a Time…In Hollywood.” Tarantino and Roger Avary, who worked together on “Pulp Fiction,” decided to share this tragic news on their well-liked podcast, The Video Archives. In a string of tweets, Tarantino hinted at the terrible end of Rick Dalton and teased an upcoming podcast episode honouring the iconic roles the character played.
The Video Archives podcast, known for its exploration of classic films on VHS and its knack for discovering new favorites, typically adheres to a bi-weekly release schedule. However, due to the urgency of this breaking news and the profound impact it has had on fans, Tarantino has expedited the podcast’s production process to accommodate the unforeseen event.
Tarantino’s unwavering commitment to Rick Dalton’s fictional life is evident through his extensive creative endeavors. In a 2021 interview with podcaster Jeff Goldsmith, Tarantino unveiled his work on a highly anticipated book titled “The Films of Rick Dalton.” This comprehensive biography meticulously delves into the imagined filmography of the character, drawing inspiration from real film retrospectives like “The Films of Charles Bronson” and “The Films of Anthony Quinn.” His career came to an end in 1988 after appearing in numerous films and TV shows.
One particularly intriguing project discussed by Tarantino was a film titled “The Fireman,” featuring both Rick Dalton and his loyal stuntman Cliff Booth, portrayed by Brad Pitt. Set a decade after the events of “Once Upon a Time…In Hollywood,” this movie revolved around a lead character who had served in the Vietnam War and subsequently became a cop. Rick’s character would face a gang of renegade officers guilty for the murder of his colleague, who was portrayed by a young Sam Jackson, in a suspenseful tale of corruption and retribution.
Assuming the persona of the Fireman and equipped with a flamethrower, Rick would unleash his fiery wrath upon these malevolent officers.
Fans are mourning the passing of Rick Dalton, but it is certain that Quentin Tarantino’s brilliant imagination will carry on Rick Dalton’s fictional legacy. The upcoming memorial episode on The Video Archives podcast promises to be a heartfelt tribute, commemorating the unforgettable moments brought to life by Rick and leaving an indelible mark on cinematic history.