Ed Burns spills the truth about Cameron Diaz punching in ‘The Holiday’

Ed Burns finally sheds light on one of the most talked about moments from “The Holiday” – the unforgettable punch scene with Cameron Diaz.

The 2006 romantic comedy has remained a beloved holiday classic, but behind the charm and snowy romance lies a scene that left fans wondering: Was that punch scripted, or did something unexpected happen on set?

Now, Burns is ready to set the record straight and share what really went down in that iconic moment—without holding back.

Did Cameron Diaz Actually Land That Punch On Ed Burns In ‘The Holiday’?

In the film, Burns plays a sweet Hollywood film composer who admits to cheating on Diaz’s character, Amanda, citing her emotional distance as the reason. In response, Amanda delivers a swift punch to his face.

“I always know when it gets close to Christmas because people will start saying, ‘Hey, The Holiday!'” Ed Burns shared with People Magazine as we discuss the film’s enduring popularity each holiday season. “People always ask me, ‘Did she really hit you?'” he added with a laugh. As for the truth behind the scene? “She didn’t. It was a bit of movie magic.”

What was Cameron Diaz’s favorite line from the movie?

In 2020, Diaz opened up about the film, revealing that although she hasn’t seen the film since it premiered, she loved how her career and success drove her character.

“To be something in the world,” she shared Vulture. “And really not putting the energy and the importance on this other aspect of her life—that being the thing that she really wanted and hoped for and was devastated not to have. And so that woman was self-sufficient and thought that she on a somehow being able to get away from the boyfriend who was a jerk and go and take care of himself in this way, that’s pretty brave.”

How did Cameron Diaz run in the snow in heels?

One of the most memorable and emotional scenes in “The Holiday” is when Diaz’s character, Amanda Woods, runs through the snowy English countryside. “I was running about four miles a day in heels,” she told Vulture with a laugh. That whole scene took a week to shoot. It wasn’t even in the script.”

“They only used two shots, but we shot like ten shots of me running across ten different fields,” she added. “And I’m wearing that Valentino cashmere, wool trench coat, a turtleneck cashmere sweater.”

‘The Holiday’ remains a classic

“The Holiday,” directed by Nancy Meyers, is a beloved romantic comedy that has become a holiday movie marathon staple. Released in December 2006, the film mixes humor, romance and heartfelt moments against the backdrop of cozy cabins, snow-covered landscapes and a touch of Hollywood glamour.

The story follows two women from opposite sides of the world, each navigating heartbreak and searching for a fresh start. Amanda Woods (Cameron Diaz), a successful but emotionally guarded film trailer editor from Los Angeles, discovers that her boyfriend (Ed Burns) has been unfaithful. Meanwhile, Iris Simpkins (Kate Winslet), a warm-hearted journalist from England, is devastated when she finds out that the man she’s in love with is engaged to someone else.

What is ‘The Holiday’ about?

Desperate for a change of scenery, the two women connected through a home exchange website and agreed to swap houses for two weeks during the holiday season. Amanda retreats to Iris’ cozy cottage in the picturesque, snow-covered English countryside, while Iris finds herself in Amanda’s luxurious and sun-drenched home in Los Angeles.

In England, Amanda crosses paths with Iris’ charming and unexpectedly sensitive brother, Graham (Jude Law). Their connection sparks instantly, leading to a whirlwind romance filled with passion and tender moments.

Meanwhile, in sunny Los Angeles, Iris forms an endearing friendship with Miles (Jack Black), a lovable and cheerful film composer. As they bond over shared vulnerabilities and moments of genuine kindness, their relationship blossoms into something deeply meaningful, proving that love can be found in the most unexpected places.