Shaun Weiss Reveals Ben Stiller's "Scary" On-Set Behavior During 'Heavyweights' Filming

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Post on May 04, 2025

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Shaun Weiss Reveals Ben Stiller's "Scary" On-Set Behavior During 'Heavyweights' Filming

Former child star Shaun Weiss, known for his role as Greg Goldberg in the 1995 cult classic Heavyweights, recently made shocking revelations about his co-star and director, Ben Stiller, claiming some of Stiller's on-set behavior was "scary." The comments, made during a recent podcast appearance, have sent ripples through the nostalgia-loving internet, prompting a renewed interest in the behind-the-scenes stories of the beloved summer camp comedy.

Weiss, who has publicly battled addiction and other personal struggles in recent years, appeared remarkably candid during the interview. While acknowledging Stiller's undeniable talent and success, he painted a picture of a demanding and intense director, one who pushed the young cast hard to achieve his vision.

A Different Kind of Summer Camp

The film, Heavyweights, follows a group of overweight children attending a summer camp that takes a dramatic turn when a ruthless fitness guru takes over. While the film portrays a comedic struggle against oppressive fitness regimes, Weiss suggests the on-set atmosphere mirrored some of the film's more intense themes. He didn't elaborate on specific instances of “scary” behavior, choosing instead to focus on the overall intensity of the production.

This isn't the first time stories have emerged questioning the behind-the-scenes realities of child acting. Many films, especially those involving intense or demanding roles, can present significant challenges for young performers. Weiss's comments, however, have added a layer of complexity to the generally positive legacy of Heavyweights.

The Impact of Weiss's Revelations

Weiss's account has sparked a renewed online discussion about the pressures faced by child actors. Many fans are expressing concern for Weiss's wellbeing and praising his openness in discussing these experiences. The #Heavyweights hashtag is trending once again, with a mix of supportive messages for Weiss and comments debating the implications of his claims.

• The importance of mental health in the entertainment industry: Weiss's story underscores the often-overlooked mental health struggles faced by performers, especially those who started their careers young.
• The power dynamics on set: Weiss's comments highlight the power imbalance inherent in the relationship between director and actor, particularly when working with child actors.
• The lasting effects of childhood trauma: For many child actors, their early experiences on set can significantly shape their future lives.

The revelations have prompted calls for greater transparency and better support systems for young actors navigating the demands of the entertainment industry. While no concrete examples were provided by Weiss, his candidness opens a conversation about the often-unseen challenges of the filmmaking process.

What Happens Next?

While Stiller hasn't yet responded publicly to Weiss's claims, the impact of these revelations is undeniable. It remains to be seen whether further details will emerge, but the conversation sparked by Weiss's interview is a crucial one, urging a critical examination of the industry's treatment of young actors and the lasting impact of intense filming experiences. The story serves as a reminder that behind the laughter and entertainment, there are often complex realities worthy of discussion and consideration. The legacy of Heavyweights may now be forever intertwined with this newly revealed, less-than-lighthearted behind-the-scenes story.