We Know Who Inspired the Character of Franck from Father of the Bride
Hint: You've seen him on #RHOBH and (soon) on #MDLNY.
It's hard to believe that 25 years have passed since Father of the Bride hit theaters. The classic family film, starring Steve Martin and Diane Keaton, isn't just remembered for its many heartwarming moments, but also for the incredible performance by Martin Short, who plays over-the-top wedding planner, Franck Eggelhoffer. As it turns out, Franck wasn't dreamt up by some Hollywood screenwriter. He is actually based on real-life celebrity wedding planner, Kevin Lee.
"Oh yeah, absolutely it was me!" Kevin told The Daily Dish. After a producer on the film told him the iconic Franck character was based on him, he couldn't believe it. "I said 'Wow' [laughs]. I was totally shocked when he told me that."
He has nothing but praise for Martin Short's incredible portrayal of him. "Well it was totally me, it's me," he said. "He captured my character so well and I was overwhelmed. [Laughs.] Officially, I am the Franck. [Laughs.]"
In the years (we mean, decades...) since Father of the Bride premiered, Kevin has appeared on multiple Bravo shows. He not only planned Lisa Vanderpump's daughter Pandora Vanderpump Sabo's wedding on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (clip below), but he also planned Ryan Serhant's Greek nuptials to Emilia Bechrakis on Million Dollar Listing New York Ryan's Wedding (clip above). So what does he think of the classic film? "It's timeless, the movie, it's totally timeless," he said. "Anytime you watch it, you can relate to it all the time. The reality of a real wedding, that's what it is."
