Actor Bill Murray briefly interrupted a live CNBC interview with Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, on Monday to ask him to say the phrase 'My dog just died.' The exchange occurred during a segment promoting Murray’s new Paramount+ travel series, 'A Course Called Ireland.'
Murray, appearing on CNBC’s 'Squawk Box' from the show’s Manhattan studio, questioned why Hassett, scheduled to join the interview via satellite from the White House, maintained a consistent smile. He requested Hassett say the phrase to observe his reaction. After clarifying that the dog in question belonged to Hassett, the economic adviser complied, resulting in a noticeable shift in his facial expression.
Key Details of the Exchange
Murray’s request came after Hassett was introduced as a guest on 'Squawk Box' to discuss economic policy. The actor, who has appeared on CNBC previously and is a shareholder of Berkshire Hathaway, seized the opportunity to engage with the adviser directly. Murray stated he would regret not taking the chance to ask the question, framing it as a lighthearted but pointed observation about Hassett’s demeanor.
Hassett responded with a laugh before asking, 'Oh, well, is it your dog or my dog?' Murray clarified it was Hassett’s dog, prompting the adviser to say, 'Okay. My dog just died.' His expression changed from a smile to a more neutral look. Murray then quipped, 'We were gonna have someone go take your blood. We’re gonna call them off. Not gonna happen.'
Context and Follow-Up
The segment was part of a broader discussion on Hassett’s role in the White House and his public appearances. After the exchange, CNBC host Joe Kernen asked Hassett about his favorite Bill Murray movie. Hassett named 'Groundhog Day' as one of his top five films, calling it 'fantastic.' Murray responded by recalling a past conversation with former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno, who reportedly showed the film to Department of Justice employees as a metaphor for their work.
Hassett later compared the concept of 'Groundhog Day' to polling, suggesting a repetitive cycle in political sentiment. The interview concluded with Murray promoting his six-part documentary series, which debuted on Paramount+ on October 25 and focuses on golf courses in Ireland.
Background on Participants
- Bill Murray is an Oscar-nominated actor known for films such as 'Ghostbusters,' 'Groundhog Day,' and 'Lost in Translation.' He has a longstanding relationship with CNBC, having appeared on the network’s programs multiple times.
- Kevin Hassett served as the director of the National Economic Council under President Donald Trump and has been a frequent commentator on economic policy in media appearances.
- 'A Course Called Ireland' is a travel and golf documentary series produced by Paramount+, featuring Murray and author Tom Coyne exploring Ireland’s golf courses.
Network Response
CNBC did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the interruption or the exchange between Murray and Hassett. Neither the White House nor representatives for Murray provided additional statements following the segment.