Bill Murray Bitten Twice by Wild Woodchuck on “Groundhog Day” Set
Bill Murray recently revealed an unexpected incident involving a wild woodchuck during the filming of the 1993 classic, “Groundhog Day.” In a 2025 episode of the show “Hot Ones,” he shared that the animal used on set was not a trained actor but a wild animal, leading to a painful encounter.
Bill Murray’s Encounter with the Wild Woodchuck
During the filming, Murray disclosed that he was bitten twice by the woodchuck, resulting in him needing a rabies shot. He mentioned that even years later, he still has a scar from the incident. Murray recalled the unexpected bites occurring on consecutive days.
The Experience Unfolds
- Murray, 75, described his reaction after the first bite, expressing rage towards the animal wrangler.
- He was surprised to learn that the woodchuck was captured just two weeks prior to filming.
- To protect himself on the second day, Murray wore steel gloves under his regular gloves, but the woodchuck’s teeth penetrated through the steel.
Following the bites, Murray confronted the animal wrangler, questioning the training of such a wild creature. He exclaimed, “Wild? What do you mean he’s wild?” The animal wrangler explained that they caught the woodchuck close to the filming location.
The Film’s Legacy
“Groundhog Day,” directed by Harold Ramis, features Murray as a cynical weatherman caught in a time loop. Alongside him stars Andie MacDowell, who praised the film’s profound message in a recent interview. She articulated that “Groundhog Day” resonates deeply with audiences, akin to classic films like “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
MacDowell, now 67, emphasized the film’s ability to reflect on the beauty of life and the importance of being a good person. This narrative, blended with humor, contributes to the timeless charm of “Groundhog Day.”
Bill Murray’s wild encounter with the woodchuck serves as a quirky anecdote from the set of a film that continues to be celebrated for its rich themes and entertainment value.
