In 1981, Ansell was invited to Sydney where he was interviewed by English journalist Michael Parkinson for his television program "Parkinson". Ansell attended the interview barefoot. While staying at the famous five-star Sebel Townhouse Hotel, he slept in his sleeping bag on the floor rather than on his bed, and was reportedly mystified by his room's bidet. Ansell's interview and curious city antics sparked Paul Hogan's interest, inspiring him and co-writers Ken Shadie, and John Cornell to create the character Mick "Crocodile" Dundee. Following the unexpected blockbuster success of "Crocodile Dundee", Ansell unsuccessfully took Hogan to court. His inability to profit from the films remained a source of bitterness in his life.