In real life, the three kitties are named Mel Gibskin, Paul Nudeman and Skindiana Jones. Ted immediately ran into Mike s lap and began to purr. I believe Mike really loves Ted. On more than one occasion, Ted wound up staying in a scene longer than planned because he dozed off in Mike s lap. If Ted just arrived on the set, Mike wanted to be sure he was comfortable, he d take time out to pet him and talk to him, and then he d say, Okay, we re ready.
Maples points out all actors aren t so thoughtful.
Many actors really do fear being upstaged by a wagging tail or purring kitty. Maples won t reveal the name of the actor on a TV show who was supposed to be dribbling a basketball while a dog sat by and watched. In order to get the dog out of his shot, the actor would intentionally bounce the ball toward the dog. But I prefer to tell the good stories of the real pro s, she adds. What no one knew is that is that the now deceased actress was allergic to cats.