Reunion of “The Cannonball Run” Actresses Adrienne Barbeau and Tara Buckman
Sant’Agata Bolognese/Celebration, Florida, June 18, 2024 – Automobili Lamborghini marked the 45th anniversary of the iconic Countach LP 400 S from the cult classic film “The Cannonball Run” by reuniting actresses Adrienne Barbeau and Tara Buckman. The duo, who played the all-female crew driving the legendary car in the movie, came together for the first time since the film’s release on June 19, 1981.
The celebrated Lamborghini Countach LP 400 S was originally manufactured in November 1979. Featuring a striking Nero (black) exterior and a Senape (mustard) interior, the car was initially shipped to the SEA dealership in Rome before making its way to the United States, specifically Florida. The car’s owner, a friend of the movie’s director, lent it for the film, cementing its place in American automotive history.
The Countach underwent several modifications for its role in the movie, including a wing, full-beam headlights, a spoiler, three antennas, twelve exhaust pipes, and additional fake instruments. After filming, these unique features remained intact. In 2009, the car found a new owner, Jeff Ippoliti, a lifelong car enthusiast who had been captivated by the Countach since first seeing it in the film’s opening scene.
The Movie
“The Cannonball Run,” inspired by a real cross-country race from New York to Los Angeles, featured a star-studded cast including Roger Moore, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Jackie Chan, Farrah Fawcett, Adrienne Barbeau, and Tara Buckman. Barbeau and Buckman, who played Marcie Thatcher and Jill Rivers respectively, drove the Countach in the film, making it the only all-female crew and the race’s winners. The movie’s memorable opening chase scene showcased the Countach’s powerful 12-cylinder engine, further enhancing its legendary status.
The Library of Congress Honor
The Lamborghini Countach LP 400 S from “The Cannonball Run” was honored by the US Library of Congress in 2021, becoming the 30th car to be recognized for its extraordinary cultural, historical, and societal significance. This recognition ensures that all knowledge and documentation related to the car are preserved for future generations.
Memories of the Stars
During the reunion, Barbeau and Buckman shared their memories of working on the film and driving the Countach. Neither had seen or driven a Lamborghini before the movie. “I immediately thought it was beautiful, simply beautiful, and it still is,” Barbeau said. Buckman added, “We had the best car and it was definitely the most beautiful of all.”
Both actresses expressed surprise at the film’s lasting success and their association with the Countach. Barbeau mentioned that despite her other roles, fans most frequently ask her to autograph Countach model cars. Buckman echoed this, recalling numerous autograph requests for photos and models of the iconic car.
Lamborghini Polo Storico
Lamborghini Polo Storico, the department responsible for the brand’s historical heritage, played a pivotal role in this celebration. The department focuses on maintaining Lamborghini’s archives, certifying classic models, and restoring historic cars. Alessandro Farmeschi, After Sales Director of Automobili Lamborghini, highlighted the Countach’s significance, stating, “It’s a car that ignited a passion for the Lamborghini brand and for the Countach model in many young enthusiasts who, after growing up, came to us as customers.”
The reunion and the car’s acknowledgment by the Library of Congress underscore the Countach’s enduring legacy, celebrating its unique place in both automotive and cinematic history.
