How Clifton Collins Jr. Paid Tribute to Beloved Hollywood Manager Chris Huvane at Spirit Awards
Clifton Collins Jr. walked the blue carpet at Sunday’s Spirit Awards and was keen to talk about his critically acclaimed performance in Clint Bentley’s Jockey. The film casts the veteran actor as an aging jockey in search of one final championship only to see his life upended by a new rider who arrives on the scene claiming to be his son.
He earned a Spirit Award nomination for best male lead, and while the trophy in his category went to Red Rocket star Simon Rex, Collins Jr. said being invited to the dance “is all you want” as an actor. “To be nominated by your peers, it’s the greatest acceptance and validation,” explained the 51-year-old. “This is badass. You hope to finish a film and that it turns out likable enough to get recognized, and then when people have the same passion for it that you put into it — that’s the win, right? The win is you’re sharing the gift and touching people’s hearts.”
Speaking of badass, Collins Jr. stepped out in a pair of well-worn combat boots, and he told The Hollywood Reporter that he’s had them in his possession more than 20 years after lifting them from boot camp training for Joel Schumacher’s Tigerland. It’s the second time he’s worn them in the last week, and that’s not a coincidence. “I wore them to the memorial, and I’m wearing them today — for Huvane,” he explained, referencing Chris Huvane.
The beloved Hollywood manager passed away last month, and his life was celebrated last Thursday during an emotional memorial service at the Academy Museum. His brother, CAA’s Kevin Huvane, spoke as part of a program attended by stars Margot Robbie, Zach Braff, Kevin Zegers and Tory Kittles, among others. After the service — filled with tears and set against a backdrop that featured a collection of Chris’s favorite sneakers — members of his inner circle broke off for drinks to keep the tributes and love flowing.