In a candid interview, acclaimed British actress Juliet Stevenson discusses her latest role in the Australian series Dustfall, her love for Australia, and her list of political nemeses. Stevenson, known for her versatile performances on stage and screen, opens up about stepping out of her comfort zone and the challenges facing actors today.
Juliet Stevenson on Filming in Australia
Stevenson recently spent time in Australia filming Dustfall, where she worked alongside a python. Despite her fear of snakes, she found the experience memorable. "The python was very professional. Behaved better than I did," she jokes. She also praises the Australian people for their openness and lack of class pretension. "That seems to me a very Australian quality. It’s like the landscape: big, open and generous," she says.
Stepping Out of Her Comfort Zone
Stevenson is known for seeking roles that challenge her. In Dustfall, she plays Olivia, the mother of Anna Torv’s character. "I do, because it’s very boring playing characters who are close to myself. I didn’t become an actor because I wanted to play me!" she explains. She worries that the industry is pushing actors to stick to their own lived experiences, which she finds limiting. "What’s the word 'act' mean, then?" she asks. As actors age, she notes, they risk becoming too comfortable and safe, which can make them worse. "You need to be pushed out of your comfort zone."
Political Nemeses
When asked if she has a nemesis, Stevenson doesn't hold back: "Where do we start? Putin, Musk, Trump, Erdoğan, Modi, Netanyahu." She names these leaders as figures she opposes, reflecting her outspoken nature on political issues. Stevenson's willingness to speak her mind is part of what makes her a compelling figure both on and off screen.
Key Takeaways from Juliet Stevenson's Interview
- Stevenson values roles that pull her out of her comfort zone.
- She admires the openness and lack of class pretension in Australian culture.
- She names several political leaders as nemeses, showing her willingness to speak out.
- She believes actors should be allowed to play characters different from themselves.
Comparison: Stevenson's Roles vs. Personal Life
| Aspect | On Screen | Off Screen |
|---|---|---|
| Personality | Diverse characters | Outspoken, politically engaged |
| Comfort Zone | Seeks challenging roles | Embraces new experiences |
| Political Views | Often plays strong women | Vocal critic of certain leaders |
FAQ
What is Juliet Stevenson's new project?
Juliet Stevenson stars in the Australian series Dustfall, playing the mother of Anna Torv's character.
Who are Juliet Stevenson's political nemeses?
She names Putin, Musk, Trump, Erdoğan, Modi, and Netanyahu as her political nemeses.
Why does Juliet Stevenson seek challenging roles?
She finds it boring to play characters close to herself and believes actors should be pushed out of their comfort zone to avoid becoming complacent.