Acclaimed 'Dog Day Afternoon' Star Reflects on Iconic LGBTQ+ Film

In a recent interview, acclaimed actor Chris Sarandon looks back on his role in the 1975 film "Dog Day Afternoon," which is based on the real-life story of John Wojtowicz. Sarandon played the fictionalized version of Wojtowicz's transgender partner, Leon Shermer, alongside Al Pacino's portrayal of Wojtowicz.

While Sarandon takes immense pride in the breakthrough role, he acknowledges that he would not be cast in the part today, saying "and rightfully so." The actor believes the role should go to someone more authentically aligned with the character. Sarandon also condemns the way transgender rights have become a political talking point in the United States, calling the treatment of the LGBTQ+ community a "travesty."

To prepare for the role, Sarandon invited four "drag queens" to his home, hoping to draw inspiration from their personal stories and experiences. The actor even found himself "flirting" with one of his dinner guests, a moment he describes as a "real lesson" in the emotional and physiological dimensions of gender identity.

Looking ahead, a new stage adaptation of "Dog Day Afternoon" is set to debut on Broadway in 2026, with Jon Bernthal and Ebon Moss-Bachrach taking on the lead roles. However, the casting for Sarandon's character has yet to be announced.