director Penn Jillette (qv) said that  Rodney Dangerfield (qv) and Buddy Hackett (qv) were both invited  to appear in the film and were supportive of the film, but declined  due to their failing health (they would both die before the film  premiered). Also, the filmmakers intended to have a private  screening for Johnny Carson (I) (qv) at his home, but he died only  days after the premiere at Sundance. They then decided to dedicate  the film to him.