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Twenty-five years after the release of M. Night Shyamalan's supernatural thriller "The Sixth Sense", actor Haley Joel Osment has shared heartwarming details about his relationship with co-star Bruce Willis in the years following their collaboration. In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Osment, now 36, revealed that Willis regularly reached out to check on him long after filming wrapped.
"I heard from [Bruce] a lot after it came out in those subsequent years," Osment recounted. "He'd leave voicemails at the house from time to time, just checking in." The actor, who was only 10 years old during the film's production, described how Willis would call "out of the blue" to say hello or touch base before promotional trips.
Osment's portrayal of Cole Sear, a troubled young boy who claims to see dead people, earned him Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations. Working alongside Willis, already an established action star, left a lasting impression on the young actor. "It made a huge impression on me because that was the first gigantic celebrity that I'd worked with at an age where I was aware of his stardom," Osment explained.
The film's success catapulted both actors to new heights of fame. "The Sixth Sense" grossed over $670 million worldwide and received six Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. Critics praised the performances and Shyamalan's direction, with Roger Ebert calling it "a thriller that really thrills."
Osment spoke fondly of Willis' on-set demeanor, stating, "He did everything in such a cool way, and had such charisma, and was the person that you want on set setting the tone for the sort of movie we were making."
In March 2022, Willis' family announced his retirement from acting due to a diagnosis of aphasia, a condition affecting language and cognitive abilities. Osment expressed that while he hasn't spoken directly with Willis since the news broke, he remains in contact with Willis' daughters.
The enduring impact of "The Sixth Sense" on popular culture is undeniable. Its iconic twist ending and the phrase "I see dead people" have become fixtures in film history. As the movie celebrates its 25th anniversary, Osment's revelations offer a touching glimpse into the off-screen relationships that can develop from on-screen partnerships.
Osment's career has continued steadily since his breakout role, with appearances in various films and television shows. Willis, despite his recent health challenges, leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances spanning decades.
