NYT: Alfa-Betty Olsen, Behind-the-Scenes ‘Comic Conspirator,’ Dies at 88

[MezzA101]

Posted: 10/16/25 at 2:53pm

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/13/arts/television/alfa-betty-olsen-dead.html?unlocked_article_code=1.t08.a6BC.akh316Cs7hik&smid=nytcore-android-share

 

In a low-budget project that was purposefully steeped in extravagant bad taste, Mr. Brooks wrote that he relied on Ms. Olsen’s sound judgment and encouragement. “I would say things like, ‘Can I do this? Is this too crazy?’” he wrote. “And she’d say, ‘No, never too crazy for you.’”

Ms. Olsen was given the task of hiring the cast and helping to shape the script, which won an Oscar for best screenplay. After conducting musical research at the Lincoln Center Library for the Performing Arts, she noticed the Revson Fountain at the complex and thought it would be an ideal location for Bialystock and Bloom to celebrate their corrupt union. Mr. Brooks agreed.

The nighttime scene culminates when Bloom runs and skips around the edge of the fountain. As jets of water soar into the air, Bloom gleefully proclaims, “I’m Leo Bloom! I’m me! I can do whatever I want!”