According to
Ben Mankiewicz of Turner Classic Movies, a columnist visiting the set commented on
Steve McQueen's irascible temperament by noting that McQueen seemed to be his own worst enemy: "Steve McQueen's character in 'Hell Is for Heroes' seemed to have a little trouble getting along with people. By most accounts, playing that kind of guy wasn't a stretch for McQueen. Time and time again during production, McQueen got in the face of studio executives or
Don Siegel, the director, or even cast members. At one point, a columnist was visiting the set, and he mentioned to another observer that Steve McQueen seemed to be his own worst enemy. Co-star
Bobby Darin overheard the comment and quickly replied, 'Not while I'm around'."
