Eugene Levy has become one of the most recognizable faces of the American Pie franchise, thanks to his beloved role as Jim’s father, Noah Levenstein. Starring in all four of the original movies, the actor became a fan-favorite, with his warm yet hilariously awkward portrayal of a dad trying to guide his son through adolescence.
Additionally, Levy also starred in the spin-off film series of the franchise, American Pie Presents, except for its fifth installment, American Pie Presents: Girls’ Rules.
The film series followed Jim (Jason Biggs) and his friends navigating love, s*x, and friendship. Since its 1999 debut, it has grown into a cultural touchstone, spawning sequels and spin-offs that defined late-’90s and early-2000s teen comedy.
Eugene Levy Almost Turned Down American Pie
During an interview with GQ, Eugene Levy revealed that he almost turned down his now-iconic role in American Pie.
“I didn’t like the way the part was written. I said no,” he explained, adding that he didn’t want to be in a film he wouldn’t personally watch.
However, Paul Weitz and Chris Weitz made him an unusual offer: spend an afternoon improvising scenes with Jason Biggs and reshape the role to his liking. That freedom changed everything. Levy recalled how the process instantly felt right and convinced him to join the project.
The collaboration led to some of the film’s most memorable moments. Levy improvised many of his lines, like the awkward magazine scene, and his performance resonated so strongly that the filmmakers expanded his role, cementing him as a standout in the franchise.
Eugene Levy to Start A New Journey In The Reluctant Traveler Season 3
Eugene Levy is ready to pack his bags once again as he returns for Season 3 of the hit documentary-comedy series The Reluctant Traveler. The new season will premiere on September 19, 2025, debuting with two episodes before shifting to a weekly release schedule.
Levy has already explored diverse regions across the globe in the first two seasons. Now, he’s set to guide audiences through eight new countries, each with its own unique culture, language, people, and traditions, promising fresh laughs and heartfelt discoveries along the way.
Are you excited to revisit Levy’s iconic American Pie journey and join him in traveling the world? Which of his adventures will you be watching first?
The Reluctant Traveler Season 3 is set to release on Apple TV+ on September 19, 2025.