When you saw him on TV or in public with a glass in his hand, chances are he was merely drinking apple juice on ice to look like scotch or bourbon or rye. He was just keeping up his public persona.
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It was actually an act most of the time. He played up the reputation of heavy drinker as his public character, but actually wasn't that big of a drinker when compared to some of his contemporaries. He was actually more the type to go home to his family than stay out drinking.

In the MAD Magazine parody of "Airport," which was released at least ten years prior to "Cannonball," the artist drew a cocktail glass in Martin's character's hand in every single panel.
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That is awesome

Dean Martin had a rep as a heavy drinker/party guy
long
before "Cannonball Run."
In the MAD Magazine parody of "Airport," which was released at least ten years prior to "Cannonball," the artist drew a cocktail glass in Martin's character's hand in every single panel.
But yeah, he is clearly stewed to the gills during several scenes in this movie. Sammy Davis Jr. too.
I get the feeling that a lot of partying must've gone on behind the scenes while making this movie. I wonder how much of the budget was set aside for booze?
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i assumed he was a lifelong drunk. it was certainly his persona in the 70s and 80s.

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