Hollywood legend Bill Murray took a moment on Jimmy Kimmel Live! to reminisce about a surprise visit to the Zeiterion Theatre in New Bedford, Massachusetts, this past summer. The 76‑year‑old actor described the experience as a spontaneous gesture for local fans, noting that the city is undergoing a “great rebirth” as it revitalizes its historic downtown and cultural venues.
Surprise screening of a classic comedy
Murray explained that he was only about 125 miles away, making a quick trip to attend a screening of his own 1991 film What About Bob?. He said he slipped out of the theater after the movie ended, walking behind a cardboard cutout of himself to keep the moment low‑key. “It was just kind of fun to walk out at the end of the movie,” he said, adding that the unexpected appearance sparked smiles among the audience.
New Bedford’s cultural momentum
New Bedford, long known as the historic whaling hub of New England, has been investing in its arts district and historic landmarks. The Zeiterion Theatre, a 1920s movie palace, recently completed a multimillion‑dollar renovation that restored its original marquee and upgraded seating. Local officials have highlighted the theater as a cornerstone of the city’s broader downtown revitalization plan, which includes new restaurants, boutique shops, and waterfront development.
Mayor Jon Mitchell praised Murray’s visit as a testament to the city’s growing appeal. “When a beloved figure like Bill Murray stops by and shares his enthusiasm for New Bedford, it underscores the progress we’re making in bringing families and visitors back to our historic streets,” Mitchell said in a recent press release.
Jimmy Kimmel Live! and broadcast changes
The interview also touched on a broader media shift: in 2025, several ABC affiliates owned by Nexstar and Sinclair temporarily pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live! from their lineups. The decision, driven by contract negotiations, sparked debate among media observers about local‑market autonomy versus network programming. While the brief blackout affected viewership in some regions, the show has since returned to its full schedule.
Despite those industry hiccups, Murray’s appearance on the program provided a light‑hearted moment that resonated with both national audiences and New Bedford residents. Fans on social media praised the actor’s humility and the city’s welcoming atmosphere.
Community response
Local residents expressed pride in the attention the Zeiterion Theatre received. “It’s wonderful to see our town highlighted on a national platform,” said longtime New Bedford resident and theater volunteer Maria Santos. “Moments like this encourage more families to explore our historic sites and support local businesses.”
The Zeiterion Theatre continues to host a mix of classic film screenings, live performances, and community events. With the city’s ongoing downtown initiatives, officials hope the venue will remain a cultural anchor for generations to come.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
