Jeff Goldblum's mother thought he had died when he became the victim of an online hoax in 2009.

Jeff Goldblum

Jeff Goldblum

Almost a decade ago, a spoof website claimed the 65-year-old actor had fallen off a cliff whilst filming in New Zealand, and after the fake story began to circulate around the Internet - with "Jeff Goldblum dead" trending on Google - several people, including the star's own mother, believed he had lost his life.

When asked during an appearance on 'Watch What Happens Live' on Monday (26.03.18) if anyone close to him had believed the cruel joke, the 'Jurassic Park' actor said: "Yes, someone had put online that I had fallen off a cliff in New Zealand. Before we got the word out and I could call everybody, yes, my mom. She called and was like, 'Jeffrey, are you alright? Are you alright?' And then a friend of mine [who] very tearfully and hysterically left a message."

Shortly after the gaffe in 2009, Jeff delivered a joke tribute to himself during 'The Colbert Report', where he said he would "miss" himself.

He said at the time: "No-one will miss Jeff Goldblum more than me. he was not only a friend and mentor, but he was also me. Jeff Goldblum's performances combined the muscularity of [Marlon] Brando, the pathos of [Meryl] Streep and the musky sensuality of a pride of baboons."

The 'Independence Day' star now has two children of his own - sons Charlie, two, and 11-month-old River, whom he has with his wife Emilie Livingston - and recently revealed he "appreciates" being an older father.

He said: "I feel right on schedule and I love our two boys.

"Everything seemed to happen perfectly. I appreciate it wildly."

Jeff married third wife Emilie in 2014, and despite the challenge of having to raise two young boys, the loved-up couple still find time for romance.

He added: "It's challenging. But we're very focused.

"We do OK. We have nice people who help us and they allow us to go on a sweet date night here and there."


Tagged in