Don Simpson: The Broken King
The producer of the original Top Gun
Trigger Warning: abusive behavior, aggressive language
It was 1983. A blizzard had seized Anchorage, Alaska. Through the glass of the theater, I watched a limousine pull up into the night. In hurtling snow, the driver opened the door. Stepping out of the limo, in a knee-length camel hair coat, in mirrored shades, was the president of production of Paramount Pictures and, one day, the producer of Top Gun, the biggest movie of 1986.
This was Don Simpson. He looked like a Hollywood star arriving at the red carpet. But this was not a premier. This was a preview of a work in progress. Don looked to his right, then his left, searching for the fans. He was confused and high. Anchorage had closed down and there wasn’t a car in sight, let alone a human being.
This cold, god-forsaken city where the sun comes up only six months a year was Don’s hometown. Paramount has spent $137,000. to lug double system projectors so the unfinished film could be viewed for a recruited audience. The prodigal son returned in triumph as Paramount’s head of production. But there were only eight people in the audience to witness his triumph.
Fathers, be good to your sons. When they misbehave, don’t throw them against walls. Don’t beat them with your fists. You…
