On his radio show, co-director Penn Jillette said that Rodney Dangerfield and Buddy Hackett were both invited to appear in the film and were supportive of the film, but declined due to their failing health (they would both die before the film premiered). Also, the filmmakers intended to have a private screening for Johnny Carson at his home, but he died only days after the premiere at Sundance. They then decided to dedicate the film to him.