A night dedicated to celebrating George Clooney also became a moment of sweet nostalgia for Julianna Margulies, who was there to honor her longtime friend and “ER” co-star at the 51st Chaplin Award Gala in New York City. The event, held at Lincoln Center, marked Clooney’s lasting influence on the film industry and the strong bonds he has built over the years.
GettyTo jog your memory a little, on “ER,” George Clooney played Dr. Doug Ross, a charismatic pediatrician known for his rebellious streak and big heart. Margulies starred as Nurse Carol Hathaway, a compassionate and resilient caregiver who became the emotional core of the series.
GettyMargulies is now sharing memories from their early days, emphasizing how his genuine kindness helped shape their decades-long friendship.
Inside Their Early ‘ER’ Bond and a Memorable Porsche Moment
In a conversation with “Extra,” Julianna Margulies spoke warmly about George Clooney, recalling how his character and generosity stood out early on.
She said, “Even though on the pilot, I was just a guest star… the way he treats everyone. Everyone is treated with the same amount of respect, no matter where you were on the call sheet or who you are on the crew. That’s quintessential George.”
GettyReflecting on their first experiences working together on “ER,” Margulies remembered a lighthearted moment that brought them closer.
She shared, “On the pilot, so I was, you know, a theater actress from New York, and I rented a little, you know, four-door sedan that I could afford to get to the pilot, and he said, ‘Do you like driving?’ I said, ‘Yeah, I went to high school in New Hampshire, so if you didn’t drive stick, you couldn’t get up the hill in the winter, so I’m a good driver.’
Getty“And he said, ‘Have you ever driven a Porsche?’ And I was like, ‘No.’ He handed me the keys and we went for a drive. He barely knew me, but he was impressed that I knew how to handle the car, so I think that bonded and cemented our friendship.”
It’s a memory that captures the easygoing spirit of their early days and the foundation of a friendship that has continued long after their time on screen.
Margulies Celebrates George Clooney’s Journey from ‘ER’ to Hollywood Icon
For Margulies, watching George Clooney rise to global fame remains a memory she holds close.
Talking to Extra, she added, “It was wild to witness and be a part of, and also it was fun. We’re all happy for each other, so it was lovely.”
When asked about the possibility of working together again, Margulies kept things light and open-ended.
“I’m not sure. Ask George. It’s a good question for George.”
She also took a moment to celebrate fellow “ER” alum Noah Wyle, applauding his recent success. “I’m so proud of him. We all are.”
More than three decades after “ER” first brought them together, Clooney and Margulies continue to share a bond shaped by mutual respect, shared history, and a friendship that has stood the test of time.
George Clooney Reflects on Friendship and Career Milestone
GettyGeorge also spoke to “Extra” and acknowledged that the moment was both meaningful and a bit overwhelming.
“It’s a little nerve-wracking,” he said of receiving the prestigious award.
He also shared his appreciation for the friends who showed up to celebrate him, including Julianna Margulies.
Getty“It’s fun to see them. I love them. I admire them, and the fact that they’re here tonight is really a sweet thing.”
Looking back on their decades-long bond, Clooney said, “We kind of grew up together on the screen, and it’s like over 30 years ago we did ‘ER.’”
GettyHe described Margulies as “family,” recalling how he supported her early in her career by encouraging her to stay with the series during a pivotal moment.
