Emmy-nominated FX miniseries The People vs. O.J. Simpson was pretty much universally acclaimed; this writer described it as "suspenseful, emotionally gripping, and an utter thrill to watch"—largely in part due to the incredible acting which featured delightfully over-the-top portrayals of the many flamboyant real-life characters.
Such as, for example, John Travolta's turn as one of Simpson's attorneys, Robert Shapiro, who "oozes egotistical sleaze". While it netted Travolta an Emmy nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a Miniseries, it certainly didn't make Shapiro look very good!
On Friday, the real Bob Shapiro was accosted by TMZ in the parking lot of the Bristol Farms in Beverly Hills (perfect), who told the reporter that Travolta never met with or consulted him while prepping for the role.
"I wish he had talked to me and found out who I really am and what I'm really like," Shapiro told TMZ. "I saw part of the first episode, and didn't think it was an accurate portrayal...I rely on people who I know who saw it, and they say it doesn't capture who you are in any way."
When asked if he was bitter that Travolta failed to reach out to him, Shapiro said:
No, I'm not bitter at all, I'm not bitter at all. He's a fine actor and I'm sure he did his best, but I imagine that if you try to interpret who somebody is without meeting them and finding out who they are, you're not going to hit the nail and be absolutely accurate.
So, no: Shapiro will *not* be sending Travolta a fruit basket if he wins tomorrow.
