Bill Murray Meets Fans, Talks SNL and More at Austin Event
January 27, 2024 |
By Dani Dudek
Bill Murray

Fans of Bill Murray got a chance to meet the SNL alum in Austin when The Chive hosted a wild affair at Star Hill Ranch. The legendary actor mingled with members of the Bill Murray 1000 group and other Central Texas fans who paid a premium to attend the event.

Here’s What Went Down at the Bill Murray 1000 Event in Austin

Upon entry, fans were greeted by a giant Stay Puft Marshmallow man and a photo op with the Ecto-1 with Ghostbusters. After grabbing a Murricane, guests wandered into Main Street which was packed with all kinds of western fun. Activities included: a mechanical bull, axe throwing, a basketball court to play Horse, a Texas whiskey tasting experience and a karaoke room. But that wasn’t the only musical experience. The Spazmatics had the crowd rocking to the best of the 80s and 90s.

As if that isn’t enough, there was a Kingpin styled speakeasy located behind a bookshelf. We actually got to witness Big Ern himself bowl a frame!

Though Murray has been known to be inappropriate and difficult to work with, he was in good form at the event, chatting and taking pictures with dozens of fans.

Bill Murray’s Favorite SNL Memory

While speaking to the crowd, Murray was asked to share his favorite SNL memory. One of his moments of absolute and total humility, he says, had to do with the end of night ritual when the cast says goodnight to the crowd. Ray Charles was the guest on this particular night.

I never felt so, not worthless, but so much that I didn’t belong on the same stage with anyone. Never. And I’ve been on the stage with huge people. But to see that fella walk in and spend the week with us, know all his lines cold, play like five different musical numbers … just kill everything he did and be completely cool and appreciative of other people. He had all that and still was receiving from other people. He’s an extraordinary person. That was probably the most undeniable moment I ever had there.

– Bill Murray

He also spoke about golf, baseball, his favorite acting scenes with his brother and more.

As mentioned, the majority of fans at the event are members of the Bill Murray 1000 group. The free to join club is all about art, stories, and Bill Murray living life to the fullest. The club provides a forum to discuss Murray-isms, general topics, and plan activities that can include parties with the man himself. Holders of the Bill Murray 1000 Original Bills and Destination membership passes get access to private groups and special content.

Tania Ortega and Dani Dudek. Photo by Hayden Walker, austinfoodmagazine.com

Fun side note: Star Hill Ranch is where they filmed The Son. The AMC series starred Pierce Brosnan.

It sounds like Murray went on to spend the weekend in Austin. The following day he was spotted on Congress Avenue wearing a Bears beanie.

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