#12: Jennifer Jason Leigh’s family helped a young costar get by
Jennifer Jason Leigh grew up in Los Angeles and came from a family already connected to the entertainment world, which made filming in the San Fernando Valley feel like home turf. For her, the Fast Times shoot meant working close to where she lived and among people she knew well.

Brian Backer, however, arrived from New York as a young actor still trying to establish himself. To help him manage the costs of working in Los Angeles, Leigh’s family offered him a place to stay at no charge. Their support allowed Backer to focus on the role without worrying about housing expenses during production.
