**Jeremy Strong on Succession: "It F*ed Me Up"
Jeremy Strong, the 45-year-old actor, has revealed that playing the role of Kendall Roy on the Emmy-winning hit series Succession had a long-term impact on his mental health. In a recent interview with The Sunday Times, Strong admitted that he "sometimes lost touch with joy" while reflecting on his time playing the character.
"It f***ed me up," he shared candidly. "I’ve rediscovered play. I sometimes lost touch with joy." Strong, known for his intense method acting, was previously overwhelmed by his role as the wounded black sheep of the Roy dynasty.
The actor confessed that he would imagine terrible things happening in his own life to mentally prepare for the role, which ultimately harmed his mental health. "I went on a silent meditation retreat last week. I really needed it," he said.
Strong’s intense immersion in the character took a toll on his personal life, with him reportedly continuing to embody Kendall even off-camera and off-screen. "Because unlike my co-stars, I didn’t leave my character on the set," he explained. "I continued to play the part even when I wasn’t filming."
The actor expressed relief at leaving the role behind, saying, "I don’t miss it. I’m glad I no longer have to carry Kendall’s struggle anymore." In fact, he’s now focusing on new projects, including a role in the controversial new film, The Apprentice, in which he plays the ruthless and morally corrupt attorney and mentor of Donald Trump.
When asked if he would return to the role for a spin-off, Strong shut it down, saying, "It’s not something I have any wish to do any longer. I’m aware it is one of the main chapters of my life, but I don’t miss it."
In conclusion, Strong’s experience on Succession serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of intense method acting. His journey, from overwhelm to rediscovery, is a testament to the importance of prioritizing one’s well-being.
FAQs:
- What was Jeremy Strong’s experience like on Succession?
- Strong revealed that playing Kendall Roy on Succession had a long-term impact on his mental health, causing him to "sometimes lose touch with joy."
- How did Strong prepare for his role as Kendall Roy?
- Strong would imagine terrible things happening in his own life to mentally prepare for the role, which ultimately harmed his mental health.
- What is Strong’s current project?
- Strong is currently working on a role in the controversial new film, The Apprentice, in which he plays the ruthless and morally corrupt attorney and mentor of Donald Trump.
- Will Strong return to the role of Kendall Roy for a spin-off?
- No, Strong has shut down the possibility, stating he has no wish to revisit the character.