Richard Jenkins!

Welcome to the Piece Of Advice Newsletter!

Good morning! Today we have a super cool exploration of truck driver turned Academy Award Nominee, Richard Jenkins!

Richard Jenkins is a versatile and seasoned actor whose career has spanned over five decades, though he didn’t land his first lead role until he was in his 60s. Jenkins spent years as a reliable character actor, appearing in numerous films and television shows, often playing understated but memorable roles. Despite his late arrival to leading man status, his performance in “The Visitor” (2007) earned him critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, proving that success in Hollywood doesn’t always follow a conventional timeline.

Before fully committing to acting, Jenkins worked as a truck driver; a far cry from the red carpets and film sets he would later frequent. He practiced his acting skills on stage, especially with the Trinity Repertory Company in Providence, Rhode Island, where he performed for over a decade and eventually served as artistic director. Jenkins credits his theater background with giving him the depth and discipline that continue to define his screen performances today. His years of experience in regional theater helped him build the foundation for his nuanced and grounded acting style.

One of the more unexpected facts about Jenkins is his long-standing working relationship with the Coen brothers. He has appeared in several of their films, including “The Man Who Wasn’t There” and “Intolerable Cruelty”, often in roles that allow him to display his dry wit and subtle comedic timing. His ability to shift between comedy, drama, and even horror; such as his turn in “The Cabin in the Woods”, showcases his incredible range. He’s the kind of actor who may not always headline a film but elevates every project he’s part of.

Jenkins has also made a mark on television, winning an Emmy Award for his role in the critically acclaimed HBO miniseries “Olive Kitteridge”. Despite his accolades, he remains modest about his work, often saying that he never expected to be a star and just loves the craft of acting. Off-screen, he leads a relatively quiet life with his wife Sharon, whom he married in 1969, and their two children. Jenkins’ steady, unflashy rise in Hollywood stands as a testament to talent, patience, and dedication; a rare and refreshing trajectory in the entertainment industry!

Piece Of Advice:

Giancarlo: What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Richard Jenkins: Don’t try to be like anyone else.

Thank you for tuning in and I hope you have a great week! We’ll catch you with another fun one on Monday!

-Giancarlo