What Did Spielberg Reveal About E.T.'s Reunion with Elliott? Find Out!
A Week of Revelations for Spielberg
Steven Spielberg is having a remarkable week as his latest film, Disclosure Day, is making waves in theaters worldwide. The legendary filmmaker is back in the spotlight, particularly due to his recent comments about the beloved 1982 film E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. During his guest appearance on the Happy Sad Confused podcast alongside Disclosure Day stars Emily Blunt and Josh O'Connor, Spielberg tackled a question that has intrigued fans for decades: “Did Elliott and E.T. ever meet again after their heartfelt goodbye?” His answer brings a blend of happiness and melancholy to fans everywhere.
The Enduring Farewell
On the podcast, Spielberg addressed long-standing fan theories, confirming that Elliott never physically reunited with E.T. He stated, "Never saw him (E.T.) again. But he (Elliot) did dream about him. So there was the psychic link between the two of them," providing clarity on their connection. Spielberg emphasized that the iconic farewell scene was not just a parting but a promise that Elliott would carry with him throughout his life.
These revelations also shed light on the ongoing debate about E.T. and adult Elliott's reunion in a nostalgic 2019 Xfinity Holiday commercial featuring Henry Thomas. Spielberg clarified that the farewell in the film was, in every significant way, the ultimate goodbye.
The Story of E.T.
Debuting on June 11, 1982, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial tells the story of a young boy named Elliott who discovers an alien accidentally left behind on Earth during a collection mission. He hides E.T. at home and, along with his siblings Michael and Gertie, played by a young Drew Barrymore, forms a deep bond while helping him return home, all while evading a government task force.
Written by Melissa Mathison and produced by Universal Pictures on a budget of $10.5 million, the film grossed an astounding $797.3 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing film of the 1980s. It dominated the box office for nearly four months, won four Academy Awards, including Best Original Score and Best Visual Effects, and received two Golden Globes. In 1994, it was added to the US National Film Registry for its cultural significance.
More than four decades later, the emotional core of Spielberg's latest film, Disclosure Day, resonates with audiences. This new alien-themed film, currently in theaters, features Emily Blunt, Josh O'Connor, and Colin Firth, and once again delves into the relationship between humans and extraterrestrial beings.