Acting is weird, brutal work. Fargo star William H. Macy breaks down why desperation makes great art — and how he finally learned to act at age 60.
Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1223
What We Discuss with William H. Macy:
- Character is defined by action, not words or backstory. What you do reveals who you are, making desperation and relentlessness compelling on screen.
- The best actors are bulletproof against criticism of their craft because they commit fully to their choices without seeking approval or worrying about being flattering.
- William didn't truly learn to act until his 60s on Shameless. Getting his 10,000 hours taught him to drop baggage and focus only on what's essential in the moment.
- Really look and really listen. This simple technique transforms performances because genuine attention makes others self-conscious and creates authentic reactions.
- Focus on your strengths, not your weaknesses. Happiness comes from accepting who you are and doing what you're naturally good at rather than fixing every flaw.
- And much more...
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