Entertainment

Jeremy Strong Reveals the Dark Side of Playing Kendall Roy on "Succession" – Here's What He Really Went Through!

2024-10-15

Author: William

In a candid interview with The Times of London, Jeremy Strong discusses the intense psychological toll of portraying Kendall Roy, one of television's most complex and tortured characters, in HBO's acclaimed series "Succession." For four grueling seasons, Strong dove headfirst into the depths of Kendall's anguish, engaging in a process that left him both acclaimed and emotionally drained.

Strong admitted, “It f**ked me up,” highlighting the extreme lengths to which he went to embody the troubled heir of a powerful media family. To prepare for the role, he engaged in mentally taxing exercises, even conjuring up dreadful thoughts about his own life to match the emotional weight of Kendall's struggles.

Despite the taxing experience, the show's conclusion in 2023 marked a turning point for Strong. He reported that his mental health has since improved substantially: "I’ve rediscovered play. I sometimes lost touch with joy." This renaissance hints at a newfound lightness as he moves beyond Kendall Roy and seeks fresh opportunities in his career.

The actor's portrayal of Kendall did not go unnoticed. His commitment to the role earned him both an Emmy and a Golden Globe – a testament to his extraordinary talent and the depth he brought to the character. Reflecting on his experience, he remarked, "That show was an incalculable gift. The material was a banquet." While he values the lessons learned and the impact made through "Succession," he acknowledges, “Kendall’s struggle was difficult to carry for seven years, and there’s just so much more I want to do.”

Now, Strong is diving into another formidable role as Roy Cohn in the upcoming film "The Apprentice," which explores the early life of Donald Trump. This new chapter signifies not only a shift in characters but also an opportunity for Strong to explore different facets of his craft, proving there’s no limit to his range as an actor.

As fans eagerly await his next performance, it's clear that Jeremy Strong's journey through the emotional landscape of Kendall Roy has profoundly shaped him, and audiences can expect nothing less than greatness in his future endeavors!

Stay tuned for what this talented actor does next; the world is watching!