Geoffrey Rush
The Quote in Other Words
As an Australian portraying Britain’s most renowned comic actor, I was hesitant to take a risk and put myself in a vulnerable position. The followers of Sellers are extremely passionate, possessive, and even hostile. I was not willing to jeopardize my reputation or face their potential wrath.
Explanation of the Quote
This quote highlights the fear of taking on a role that is already associated with a beloved figure. The speaker is hesitant to put themselves in the spotlight as an Australian actor playing Britain’s greatest comic actor. The fans of the original actor are described as obsessive, possessive, and aggressive, which adds to the pressure of living up to their expectations. The fear of risking their anger and damaging their own reputation is a valid concern for any actor taking on a role that is already associated with a beloved figure.
However, this quote also raises questions about the nature of fandom and the expectations placed on actors. Is it fair for fans to be possessive and aggressive towards actors who take on roles associated with their favorite performers? Should actors be expected to live up to the expectations of fans, or should they be allowed to bring their own interpretation to a role? These are complex issues that require careful consideration and discussion. Ultimately, this quote highlights the challenges and pressures that actors face when taking on iconic roles.