Bad Monkey’s funniest moment wasn’t scripted – how Zach Braff’s struggle to play dead became the show’s hidden gem.
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Zach’s Dead Body Dilemma
When Bill Lawrence and Zach Braff reunite, magic happens. Their latest collaboration on “Bad Monkey” revealed the one thing Braff couldn’t nail – playing dead.
During their ATX TV Festival appearance, Lawrence spilled the beans on Braff’s morgue scene struggles with Vince Vaughn, creating an unexpected comedy moment that even made it to the final cut.
Beach Buddies and Florida Filming
The duo’s friendship goes beyond professional boundaries. Lawrence convinced Braff to shoot in Florida for a brief but intense role.
After Braff’s character died, Lawrence kept him around for company in their beachside condo.
“We called it ‘beach buddies,’ it’s very sad,” Lawrence admitted with a laugh, showing their genuine bond that makes their work so special.
The Corpse That Couldn’t Keep Still
Playing a convincing dead body proved surprisingly challenging. With Vaughn improvising jokes over his blue-painted “corpse,” Braff struggled to maintain his deathly stillness.
“I tried my best. I was holding my breath and everything, but he’s so f—ing funny,” Braff confessed, highlighting the behind-the-scenes chemistry that makes the show shine.
From Scrubs to Bad Monkey
Their partnership continues to evolve across projects. Lawrence praised Braff’s directing talents while expressing joy at seeing him act again.
This dynamic carries through their work from “Scrubs” to “Shrinking” and now “Bad Monkey,” where Braff’s brief appearance became memorable for all the wrong—yet hilarious, reasons.
Apple TV+ Hit Continues to Impress
“Bad Monkey” follows Andrew Yancy (Vaughn), a suspended detective turned restaurant inspector, who gets tangled in corruption when a tourist discovers a severed arm.
The series, based on Carl Hiaasen’s novel, showcases the perfect blend of mystery and comedy that’s become Lawrence’s signature style across his impressive television career.