Digest

This podcast features an in-depth conversation with actor John Lithgow, exploring his extensive career and current projects. Lithgow discusses his role as Roald Dahl in the Broadway play "Giant," which tackles Dahl's controversial anti-Semitic views and the complexities of war criticism. He shares his process for empathizing with challenging historical figures, drawing parallels to his portrayal of Winston Churchill in "The Crown." The discussion also touches upon his iconic roles in "Third Rock from the Sun" and "The World According to Garp," his work in children's entertainment, and his prolific creative drive at age 80. Additionally, the podcast includes a review of Ian Buruma's book "Stay Alive," which examines life in Berlin during WWII and its relevance to contemporary authoritarianism.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction and John Lithgow's Diverse Career

The podcast begins by emphasizing the importance of first-hand reporting and encouraging support for NPR+. It then introduces actor John Lithgow, highlighting his enduring career at 80 and his current projects, including the play "Giant," an upcoming Harry Potter series as Dumbledore, and his role in "The Old Man."

00:01:43

"Giant" Play: Roald Dahl's Controversy and Lithgow's Portrayal

The play "Giant" delves into the 1983 controversy surrounding Roald Dahl's anti-Semitic article, depicting a confrontation between Dahl and his publishers. John Lithgow discusses the challenge of playing Dahl, focusing on finding empathy by exploring the author's difficult life experiences and cruel nature, using the 1982 Lebanon invasion as a backdrop to explore anti-Semitism and war criticism.

00:10:47

Lithgow's Iconic Roles and Theatrical Endeavors

Lithgow reflects on his acclaimed role as Winston Churchill in "The Crown," discussing the challenges and his approach. He also talks about playing Dumbledore in the HBO Harry Potter series and the demanding schedule of his Broadway play "Giant," highlighting the physical and mental challenges at age 80.

00:21:21

Early Life, Acting Beginnings, and Memorable Roles

Lithgow recounts his peripatetic childhood with actor parents, his discovery of acting in college, and his training in London. He shares memories of his six-year role in the sitcom "Third Rock from the Sun," his Oscar-nominated performance as Roberta Muldoon in "The World According to Garp," and his role as a professional killer in Brian De Palma's "Blow Out."

00:35:43

Passion for Children's Entertainment and Creative Drive

Lithgow explains his passion for entertaining children, emphasizing the complete suspension of disbelief they offer and the joy of creating engaging experiences. He describes his prolific output of projects, attributing it to a constant stream of ideas and a fear of not being hired, while also cherishing his role as a grandfather.

00:38:48

Review of Ian Buruma's "Stay Alive"

John Powers reviews Ian Buruma's book "Stay Alive," which explores life in Berlin during WWII, highlighting its relevance to contemporary authoritarianism and the human capacity for adaptation and moral compromise.

Keywords

Q&A

• What is the play "Giant" about, and why is it considered timely?

  "Giant" focuses on author Roald Dahl's controversial anti-Semitic views and a confrontation with his publishers. It's timely due to its exploration of prejudice and conflict, resonating with contemporary geopolitical tensions.

• How does John Lithgow approach playing complex or controversial historical figures like Roald Dahl and Winston Churchill?

  Lithgow seeks to empathize with his characters by exploring their motivations, difficult life experiences, and personal struggles. For Dahl, he delved into his traumatic past; for Churchill, he focused on capturing his essence through physical and vocal nuances.

• What was John Lithgow's experience portraying Roberta Muldoon in "The World According to Garp"?

  Lithgow found the role deeply rewarding, drawing inspiration from Jan Morris's memoir. Despite initial casting doubts due to his height, he convinced the director through improvisation, earning an Oscar nomination.

• What are some of the key themes explored in Ian Buruma's book "Stay Alive"?

  The book examines life in Nazi Germany, focusing on themes of survival, adaptation, moral compromise, and the ease with which people can "go along" with oppressive systems, offering parallels to modern authoritarianism.

• How does John Lithgow maintain such a prolific and diverse career at age 80?

  Lithgow attributes his continued work to a constant flow of creative ideas and a drive to fill his time with meaningful projects. He also cherishes his role as a grandfather, balancing his professional life with family.

Show Notes