Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

Alexander Skarsgård

12 snips
Jul 21, 2025
Alexander Skarsgård, an Emmy Award-winning actor known for roles in True Blood and Big Little Lies, shares his adventurous spirit with captivating stories. He accidentally signed up for a month-long ski trek in the South Pole and prepared for a role in Tarzan by gaining 25 pounds. Alexander humorously discusses growing up in a bohemian family, his first Hollywood audition for Zoolander, and the societal quirks of Sweden. The conversation also touches on his intriguing role as AI in Murderbot and reflections on fame and identity.
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ANECDOTE

Impulsive South Pole Ski Adventure

  • Alexander Skarsgård impulsively joined a 21-day cross-country ski trip to the South Pole without knowing others on the team.
  • Despite the harsh conditions and monotony, he found the experience surreal and challenging.
INSIGHT

Swedish No Tall Poppy Syndrome

  • Swedish culture embodies 'No Tall Poppy Syndrome,' discouraging standing out and emphasizing conformity.
  • This creates a society valuing egalitarianism but can suppress individuality and big dreams.
ANECDOTE

Gas Station Confrontation in Sweden

  • Dax Shepard had a confrontational incident at a Swedish gas station caused by cultural misunderstandings.
  • The aggression surprised him, but locals eventually intervened to deescalate the situation.
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