Unfiltered Take: Christina Applegate gives Ed O'Neill the credit he deserves for shaping her: "He was my bloody mentor!"
Christina Applegate, TV actress and podcast host, doesn't mince words when praising her "Married... with Children" co-star, Ed O'Neill. In a conversation on her podcast "Unqualified," she calls him out as her "unofficial dad" and says, "if you hate something about me, it's his fault! If you love me, it's still his bloody fault, he taught me everything I know!"
Applegate and O'Neill shared a unique bond while playing father and daughter on the iconic '80s sitcom. Applegate, who portrayed Kelly Bundy for an incredible 11 seasons, gushes about her TV dad: "I spent more time with this bloke than my actual parents, and he's a top-notch actor and a realLegend."
The bond between the two continued even after the show ended. They'd often catch up over lengthy chats, reminiscing about the good old days and supporting each other through thick and thin. When Applegate's mother was diagnosed with cancer, O'Neill stood by her side, offering comfort and support.
To this day, their bond remains unbroken, with regularly scheduled phone calls that can last an hour or more. Applegate often reflects on the impact O'Neill had on her, both professionally and personally, stating, "Whether it's on or off-screen, Ed's influence is written all over me!"
Even now, they still enjoy watching their old episodes together, laughing and reminiscing about their time on the show.