Paul Newman once said of this picture: "This is a personal film. I had a creative hand in it even before directing."
One of several collaborations of the real-life married acting couple Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward. Publicity for this film, stated that the film marked an on-screen reunion of the pair. This was the first time the two appeared in a theatrical movie together since The Drowning Pool (1975). Harry & Son (1984) would also be the last time they appeared together in a theatrical film, until Mr. & Mrs. Bridge (1990).
Tom Cruise, Rob Lowe, and Matt Dillon all auditioned for the role of Harry's son Howard Keach. According to Rob Lowe, in his autobiography, he and Matt Dillon auditioned for the role. Paul Newman allegedly told Dillon to go home, and read poetry instead. The part, in the end, was cast with Robby Benson.
Paul Newman performed a few roles on this picture. Newman was the top-billed actor, one of the screenwriters, one of the producers, and the director.
The film features husband-and-wife actor and actress Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward. The movie debuted in 1984, which was the year that followed the couple's 25th wedding anniversary in 1983, and was the first film the pair appeared in together after this matrimonial milestone had been celebrated.