Jeremy Strong Responds to Co-Stars' Criticism of Method Acting

Jeremy Strong has addressed criticism from his "Succession" co-stars regarding his method acting approach, stating he does not feel the need to apologize for his commitment to his roles. Some castmates have described Strong's intense dedication as "f***ing annoying."

Method acting is a technique where actors fully embody their characters both on and off screen. While popular among some actors, it has also drawn criticism.

In a recent interview on the "New Yorker Radio Hour" podcast, Strong explained his perspective. "If some people feel that I'm taking it too seriously, or it changes the molecules in the room in a way that makes something uncomfortable, I guess that's something that I don't feel that I need to apologize for," he said. "I believe, and I think the directors that I work with all believe, that it's in service of the material, and I personally think that a lot of the reactions to it are of a personal nature."

Strong clarified that his intention is never to interfere with others' experiences or working methods. "First, do no harm, right? But commit to f**king what you're doing, and utterly," he added.

His role as Kendall Roy in the HBO series "Succession," which concluded in 2023, was particularly noted for his intense portrayal. Brian Cox, who played Logan Roy, Strong's on-screen father, previously called his co-star's method acting "f***ing annoying." Cox, 80, argued that while Strong is gifted, he should "celebrate" his talent rather than constantly staying in character.

Kieran Culkin, who played Kendall Roy's brother Roman, also expressed reservations about Strong's approach, particularly taking issue with Strong referring to himself as a "storyteller." Culkin, 44, stated in a conversation with Variety that he objects to actors calling themselves storytellers, suggesting it is the writer's role to tell the story, and the actors' job to help convey it.

Strong himself has spoken about the toll the role took on his mental health, admitting in an interview with The Sunday Times that playing Kendall Roy "f***ed up his life" and that he sometimes "lost touch with joy" during the show's run. Despite the challenges, he acknowledged "Succession" as an "incalculable gift" and the material as a "banquet," but indicated he does not miss playing the character and has no desire for a spin-off.

Strong's latest role is as Mark Zuckerberg in Aaron Sorkin's legal thriller "The Social Reckoning," which was released on October 9.