Behind The Scenes Chaos Of 'Animal House': How The Cast Crashed A Real Fraternity Party

Before the cameras started rolling on the legendary college comedy National Lampoon’s Animal House, the cast decided to make an unforgettable entrance into the world of frat parties. Days before filming began, John Belushi and the rest of the cast infiltrated a real-life fraternity bash at the University of Oregon. "We didn’t realize the members didn’t want other guys there," recalls Tim Matheson, who portrayed the iconic ladies' man Otter in the 1978 film. "[Co-star] James Widdoes threw a big cup of beer at them, and it escalated into a full-blown brawl," he says with a laugh.

Although the actors walked away with only minor injuries, the film itself left an indelible mark on the box office when it was released. It became the highest-grossing comedy of its time, redefining the genre. "It was outrageous," Tim shares, reminiscing about a recent Q&A session after a screening at NJPAC in Newark, N.J., on Feb. 16. "The film injected a fresh, rebellious spirit into cinema that hadn’t been seen before."

The cast of Animal House reunites 25 years after the movie’s release, proving their bond has only grown stronger over time.

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The Star Who Stole the Show: John Belushi’s Impact

Much of the film’s enduring charm can be credited to Saturday Night Live star John Belushi, whose portrayal of Bluto, the unruly heart of the Delta House's class of 1962 at fictional Faber College, became a cultural touchstone. "John was the only actor given the freedom to improvise," Tim exclusively reveals to Closer Weekly. "They’d just turn the camera on and let him do his thing." Despite his wild antics on screen, John was beloved off camera. "He couldn’t have been cooler," Tim gushes. "John was just one of the guys, always down-to-earth and easygoing."

A Lasting Brotherhood

Tragically, John passed away at the young age of 33 in 1982, but the camaraderie among his fellow cast members remains as strong as ever. "Bruce McGill was my best man at my wedding, and I’m still incredibly close to James and Peter Riegert," Tim shares warmly. "It’s almost like we actually went to college together. We’ve built a lifetime of memories and friendships."

‘Animal House’ Legacy Lives On

Four decades after its release, Animal House continues to attract new fans and inspire countless college experiences. "It’s become a rite of passage," Tim notes proudly. "My daughter called me when she was in college and said, ‘Dad, I’m at a toga party — you’ve gotta say hi to my friends.’ Every year, the film resonates with a new generation, proving its timeless appeal. It’s a testament to the magic of the movie and the incredible team behind it."