Fresh Air
Jeremy Strong Sees Acting As An Escape From Self
Dec 26, 2024
Jeremy Strong, an Emmy and Tony Award-winning actor known for his roles in 'Succession' and 'The Apprentice,' dives deep into the complexities of embodying morally ambiguous characters. He shares insights on portraying the controversial Roy Cohn and his powerful performance as Kendall Roy. Strong reflects on his challenging upbringing and how acting became an escape. He discusses the responsibility of representing truth while navigating personal emotional depth in his craft, illustrating the interplay between ambition, morality, and genesis of character.
46:23
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Quick takeaways
- Jeremy Strong's portrayal of Roy Cohn reveals the character's complex duality as a ruthless mentor whom Trump idolized while simultaneously being a victim of his own identities.
- Strong emphasizes the importance of instinct and collaboration in his performances, showcasing how genuine emotion enhances the authenticity of his roles in both The Apprentice and Succession.
Deep dives
Jeremy Strong's Role as Roy Cohn
Jeremy Strong portrays Roy Cohn in the film The Apprentice, representing the infamous lawyer during a critical phase of young Donald Trump's career. Cohn, known for his ruthlessness and connections, is depicted as a mentor who instills in Trump a playbook of confrontational tactics. Strong emphasizes how Cohn embodies principles such as always attacking and denying defeat, which he describes as fundamental to the character's DNA. The role has garnered Strong recognition, including a Golden Globe nomination, highlighting the complexity of Cohn's character as both a mentor and a flawed individual.
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