Jon Bernthal, an Emmy Award-winning actor, shares insights from his diverse career and personal life. He discusses how embracing his scruffy appearance has influenced his roles and emphasizes teaching his kids emotional resilience. Jon reflects on his artistic growth from attending acting school in Russia, blending his love for theater and sports, even making money playing baseball. He also delves into the values he gained from a Quaker upbringing, shedding light on anger management through boxing and the importance of sincerity in interactions.
Jon Bernthal reflects on the formative values instilled in him by his family, shaping his integrity and sense of loyalty.
He discusses the importance of teaching his children about empathy and healthy emotional expressions in relation to violence.
Bernthal's commitment to community engagement drives his art, as he seeks to amplify marginalized voices through projects like Ironbound.
With humor as a vital tool, Bernthal emphasizes the need for levity when addressing complex familial and identity-related themes.
Deep dives
Exploring John Bernthal's Career
John Bernthal's extensive acting career is highlighted, showcasing his work in popular series and films such as 'The Walking Dead', 'Punisher', and 'King Richard'. His ability to embody complex characters has garnered him much acclaim and a loyal fanbase. Recognized for his versatility, Bernthal has transitioned from television to prominent film roles with ease. His most recent project, a new film currently in theaters, adds to his already impressive portfolio and reflects his continuous evolution as an actor.
Personal Insights from John Bernthal
During the discussion, Bernthal shares personal anecdotes about his upbringing and family dynamics, shedding light on the experiences that shaped him. He recounts his family's strong values and the influence of his father, a dedicated lawyer who instilled a sense of loyalty and integrity in his children. Bernthal also addresses his insecurities regarding his appearance, discussing how he overcame the initial rejection faced during auditions. These candid reflections reveal his deep connection to family and his journey to self-acceptance.
Parenting Perspectives
Bernthal candidly discusses his experiences as a father, reflecting on his desire to raise compassionate and resilient children. He emphasizes the importance of teaching his kids about the world around them, including the complexities of violence and the importance of empathy. By integrating lessons of respect and awareness into their upbringing, Bernthal aims to guide his children in developing healthy relationships with their emotions and the challenges they may face. His commitment to being a thoughtful and present parent is evident throughout the conversation.
John Bernthal's Thoughts on Violence
A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Bernthal's perspective on violence, which he believes is often rooted in shame and insecurity. He argues that understanding one's relationship with violence can lead to healthier expressions of masculinity. Bernthal advocates for a nuanced approach to teaching children about conflict resolution, highlighting the importance of safety and honor in these discussions. His insights reflect a commitment to breaking harmful cycles while fostering understanding and compassion.
Theater Project Ironbound
Bernthal discusses his passion project, a theater initiative titled Ironbound, which focuses on bringing immigrant stories to the forefront. He aims to create a platform for authentic narratives, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of blue-collar workers. The project serves as an extension of his dedication to the art of storytelling beyond just film and television. By engaging with these themes on stage, Bernthal hopes to contribute to a broader conversation about identity and the immigrant experience.
The Role of Humor in Serious Discussions
Throughout the conversation, humor emerges as a necessary tool for Bernthal when navigating heavy themes, such as identity and family dynamics. He highlights the importance of laughter as a means to connect with others and to process complex emotions. By integrating levity into serious conversations, Bernthal makes difficult topics more approachable. This approach not only reflects his personality but also emphasizes the human need for lightness amid challenging discussions.
Bernthal's Interpretation of Method Acting
The discussion touches on Bernthal's thoughts on method acting and his approach to character immersion. He acknowledges the discipline involved in truly experiencing a character's mindset, drawing parallels between his physical training and emotional preparation. He reflects on how intense experiences on set can inform his performances, yet also emphasizes the need for balance and the folly of taking oneself too seriously. This perspective provides insight into both the challenges and rewards of his craft.
Community Engagement and Social Responsibility
Bernthal expresses a strong commitment to community and social issues, reflecting on how his upbringing influenced his values. He discusses the integral role of support systems within communities, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and integrity. His focus on social responsibility extends to his artistic endeavors, where he seeks to highlight marginalized voices through his work. This dedication to community engagement illustrates Bernthal's understanding of his platform and the impact of storytelling on societal issues.
Jon Bernthal (The Accountant 2, The Bear, Real Ones) is an Emmy Award-winning actor and podcast host. Jon joins the Armchair Expert to discuss making peace with the beard, how looking like a real person has been an asset in his career, and teaching his kids to not react to negative emotions. Jon and Dax talk about the positive values he was exposed to growing up in a Quaker school, keeping an anger journal through boxing, and the impact of attending acting school in Russia. Jon explains playing baseball in Moscow to make some extra rubles, he and his brothers outgrowing their issues, and the meaning he gleans from talking to real ones on his podcast.
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