Jon Voight, a legendary actor celebrated for his roles in classics like 'Midnight Cowboy' and 'Deliverance,' discusses his latest film, 'Reagan.' He shares how losing his father shaped his resilience and storytelling craft. Voight dives into the influence of Sid Caesar during his Yonkers childhood and reflects on Hollywood's political landscape, including the impact of Dr. Ben Carson’s work. He candidly addresses the dynamics of fame, authenticity in acting, and the challenges of navigating an evolving film industry.
Jon Voight's career transformation came from playing diverse roles, notably in 'Runaway Train,' breaking free from typecasting.
His perfectionism drives him to seek authenticity in performances, emphasizing the importance of detail in impactful storytelling.
Voight advocates for reviving American heritage in culture, expressing concerns about ideology challenges facing traditional values in Hollywood.
Deep dives
John Voight's Career Evolution
John Voight discusses how his role in the movie 'Runaway Train' transformed his career by allowing him to break free from the typecasting that had previously confined him. He reflects on the pivotal moment when he realized he could play a heavy character, which opened doors for future roles in acclaimed series like 'Ray Donovan.' Voight emphasizes the significance of being perceived in versatile roles, showcasing how this film changed public and industry perceptions of him as an actor. This evolution illustrates the message that embracing different aspects of one’s ability can lead to greater opportunities and variety in an acting career.
Perfectionism in the Creative Process
Voight shares insights about his perfectionist mentality and how it influences both his acting and interactions on set. He describes feeling frustrated by minor inconsistencies in productions that others might overlook, suggesting that a keen attention to detail is essential to his craft. Voight acknowledges that while some may find this perfectionism burdensome, it drives him to pursue authenticity in his performances. This desire for precision underscores the dedication required to create believable and impactful art, resonating with both filmmakers and audiences.
The Importance of Storytelling
Voight attributes his passion for storytelling to his father's influence, recalling how he would share captivating tales during his childhood. He notes that this familial bond through narratives sparked his desire to pursue a career in acting and storytelling. The actor emphasizes that storytelling connects individuals and perpetuates cultural heritage, showcasing how narratives shape collective experiences. This view highlights the enduring importance of storytelling as a means to understand ourselves and one another.
Reflections on American Culture
The conversation shifts to critical commentary on the state of American culture, with both Voight and his host expressing concerns over societal changes and educational shortcomings. Voight emphasizes the need to teach future generations about the nation's history and values, advocating for a return to showcasing the greatness of American heritage. He mentions the cultural attacks from various ideologies aimed at reshaping perceptions of the American family and its traditional values. This dialogue reflects a broader concern about preserving the historical narrative and instilling pride in the nation's accomplishments.
Navigating Hollywood's Landscape
Voight addresses the challenges of navigating the Hollywood landscape in light of political and social ideologies that often dominate the industry. He expresses the belief that artists with opposing views may find it difficult to succeed within a system that sometimes shuns diverse perspectives. Voight points to the importance of creating alternative spaces for storytelling that resonate with more traditional values, suggesting that economic realities could lead to a resurgence of films that reflect a broader range of beliefs. This commentary illustrates the ongoing tension in Hollywood between creative expression and prevailing political narratives.
Adam welcomes actor Jon Voight for a very special 1-on-1 to discuss his new film, Reagan, and his legendary acting career. They talk about how he decided to be an actor while in college, his childhood appreciation for Sid Caesar, what it was like growing up in Yonkers, NY and losing his father in a fatal car accident.
Next, Jon talks about Dr. Ben Carson’s book The Perilous Fight and the predictions of Yuri Bezmenov in the ‘80s, which he discovered while researching his role in Reagan. Then they discuss how Jon navigates a career in Hollywood despite his political leanings.
For more with Jon Voight:
● New Film: Reagan - in theaters August 30th
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