Marilu Henner vividly recalls the moment her career skyrocketed, thanks to her breakout role in the iconic TV show Taxi. Henner, who has highly superior autobiographical memory (HSAM), remembers nearly every detail of her life, including when people first started recognizing her for her role as Elaine Nardo, a single mother and cab driver with dreams of becoming an artist. Now 72, Henner looks back at that life-changing period with fondness.
In 1978, when Taxi first aired, Henner was dating actor John Travolta, and it was during a trip to Europe that she first experienced the impact of the show’s success. Henner shares how that powerful moment cemented the cast’s bond, a bond that remains strong to this day. Even after 45 years, the Taxi family is still close, with Henner taking the lead in organizing virtual reunions with her former castmates during the pandemic.
#1. The Moment Taxi Changed Everything
Henner recalls how quickly Taxi altered her life. “In 1978, when Taxi first aired, I was in Europe with John Travolta — we were dating at the time. I was walking down the street with the guys from Taxi, and people were honking and yelling, ‘Hey Louie! Hey Nardo! Hey Banta!’ We all looked at each other and realized our lives had changed. It was such a powerful moment.”
This instant recognition cemented the show’s popularity and thrust Henner and her castmates into the spotlight. Henner’s portrayal of Elaine Nardo not only showcased her acting talent but also made her a household name.
#2. A Lasting Bond with the Taxi Family
After that pivotal moment, Henner and her castmates formed a close bond, one that has endured for over four decades. She explained, “Everybody has an essence or filter through which they see their lives, and mine has always been family. Every group I’ve ever been close to, I turn into a family.”
Henner remains close with her Grease and Chicago the Musical families, but it’s her Taxi family that holds a special place in her heart. During the pandemic, Henner initiated Zoom calls with her former co-stars, and they’ve now held 21 virtual reunions. Last year, the cast celebrated Taxi’s 45th anniversary, marking the occasion with a reunion of some cast members.
Though her romantic relationship with Travolta ended, they remain good friends, just like her enduring friendship with the Taxi family.
