Why Molly Parker loves playing complex characters who’ve “lost everything”
Feb 28, 2025
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Molly Parker, a Canadian actor renowned for her roles in Kissed, Six Feet Under, and Deadwood, chats with Talia Schlanger about her latest role as a brilliant doctor grappling with amnesia. She dives into her love for portraying characters who've hit rock bottom and how these roles foster personal growth. Molly reflects on her journey from ballet to acting, the transformative impact of complex roles, and the balance of talent, opportunity, and luck in her career. Her insights reveal the art and labor behind embodying such challenging characters.
Molly Parker passionately discusses her role in 'Doc,' highlighting the transformative power of vulnerability and growth in complex characters.
She reflects on her early career, emphasizing how her role in 'Kissed' opened doors for more nuanced narratives for women in film.
Deep dives
Molly Parker's Role in 'Doc'
Molly Parker stars in the new TV drama 'Doc,' where she plays a talented chief of internal medicine whose life changes drastically after a car accident leaves her with no memory of the past eight years. The character is presented as complex, navigating themes of identity and self-discovery, as she must confront not only her forgotten past but also the consequences of her current life and the person she has become. This storyline resonates deeply with Parker, as she expresses a fascination with characters experiencing pivotal moments of loss, which can lead to profound personal growth and transformation. The role challenges her to explore various dimensions of her character at a time when everything appears to be falling apart, embodying the vulnerability that fosters true connection with others and ultimately leads to rebirth.
The Impact of 'Kissed' on Parker's Career
Molly Parker reflects on her early career, particularly her role in the indie film 'Kissed,' which marked a turning point in her trajectory as an actress. She played a medical student with an unconventional obsession, a role that garnered significant attention and opened doors for her in the male-dominated industry of the early 1990s. The film not only captivated audiences at major festivals but also showcased the potential for female-led narratives, paving the way for more complex roles for women in the film industry. Parker credits this experience as foundational, reigniting her passion for acting and affirming her desire to tell compelling stories through her work.
The Essence of Storytelling
Through her discussion about the characters she chooses, Parker articulates her belief that storytelling thrives in moments of vulnerability and transformation. She references the work of Buddhist nun Pema Chodron, emphasizing that facing pain and uncertainty often leads to personal insight and courage. These themes are evident in 'Doc,' where her character's accident forces her to depend on others and embrace vulnerability, ultimately leading to potential renewal. Parker feels that exploring these complex emotional landscapes is not only fulfilling but also an essential component of impactful storytelling, resonating with audiences on a deeper level.
The Canadian actor Molly Parker (Kissed, Six Feet Under, Deadwood) has become known for playing complex characters with really compelling stories. In her new series, “Doc,” she stars as a brilliant doctor who’s struggling with amnesia. Molly joins guest host Talia Schlanger to talk about the show, her journey as an actor, and why she loves playing characters who’ve “lost everything.”
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