Richard Dreyfuss says he can’t attend The Hollywood Show in Southern California for a planned “Jaws” meet-and-greet on May 29-30, citing “circumstances beyond” his control. Organizers on Facebook say they’re saddened, confirm his disappointment, and apologize
Richard Dreyfuss had already teased his upcoming visit to Southern California. Then, on Friday, the “Jaws” legend pulled out—just days before The Hollywood Show is set to run from May 29 to May 30.
In an Instagram message, Dreyfuss said he felt “love and excitement” ahead of his appearance, but that “circumstances beyond his control” mean he won’t be able to attend in person at the convention. He didn’t offer a specific reason for the cancellation.
Instead, Dreyfuss urged fans to keep the energy going for the rest of the cast. He encouraged the “gazillion ‘Jaws’ fans” to give the remaining cast members “the warmest welcome and all the love they deserve!”
He also thanked the creators, organizers, and caretakers of the “Jaws” legacy. Even with the in-person plans derailed, Dreyfuss promised he’ll be “at the event in spirit.”
The event’s organizers responded on Facebook, writing that they were saddened Dreyfuss would be missing the celebrity meet-and-greet. They described Dreyfuss as “extremely disappointed,” and added that he sincerely apologizes to his fans.
While Dreyfuss steps back, organizers say the “Jaws” cast members expected to attend from the original film include Carl Gottlieb, Ted Grossman, Carla Hogendyk, Jeffrey Voorhees, Jonathan Searle and more.
For fans of the 1975 horror classic, the timing hits hard—especially because Roy Scheider and Robert Shaw, two other standouts from the film, died years ago. Dreyfuss’s absence leaves a noticeable gap in a reunion that many were hoping to experience up close.
Richard Dreyfuss Jaws The Hollywood Show meet-and-greet Instagram Carl Gottlieb Ted Grossman Carla Hogendyk Jeffrey Voorhees Jonathan Searle Roy Scheider Robert Shaw
Wow that’s messed up. Like why even tease it then just bail?
I mean “circumstances beyond” is the classic vague celebrity excuse. My guess is something health related but who knows. Either way I feel bad for the fans who planned around it.
Wait so he’s not going but he’ll be there “in spirit”?? That’s not really a meet-and-greet lol. Also they said the cast was expected, but “and more” who even is coming now. Roy Scheider and Robert Shaw already gone, and now this too… feels like they keep teasing reunions and then pulling the rug.
This is why I don’t trust Hollywood Show stuff. They probably overbooked him or he got scared of the sharks again or something. If he already teased Southern California I feel like he should’ve said whatever the real reason was instead of just love and excitement. At least they should still do the Jaws pictures with the other cast, I guess?