Richard Schiff Reflects on Career, Admiration, and Personal Insights
In a candid interview, actor Richard Schiff, known for his role as Toby Ziegler in The West Wing, opens up about his life, fears, and the people who inspire him. Born in Maryland and now 70 years old, Schiff gained fame with Steven Spielberg's 1997 film The Lost World: Jurassic Park and has since starred in series like The Good Doctor and Ballers, as well as the film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. He is currently performing in Copenhagen at Hampstead Theatre until 2 May, and lives with his wife and two children in Montana and New York City.
Admiration for Martin Sheen and Awkward Moments
When asked about the living person he most admires, Schiff points to Martin Sheen, describing him as "the kindest and most fun-loving person and serious activist I’ve ever known." He adds a humorous yet heartfelt note: "If Jesus was alive today he’d point to Martin Sheen and say, 'That’s what I was talking about.'" On a lighter note, Schiff recounts an awkward moment with actress Amy Adams, where he blurted out "I love you" without meaning it romantically, attributing it to her charismatic presence.
Personal Traits and Fears
Schiff describes himself in three words as "quietly somewhat funny," and shares that his greatest fear is people discovering what that fear actually is. He deplores his own lack of foreign language skills and others' inability to listen. Unhappiness for him stems from falling into solipsism, and he dislikes the coffee stains on his clothing. As for aging, he jokes that what scares him is "getting even older."
Life Lessons and Philosophical Views
One of the most important lessons life has taught Schiff is that showing up is at least 90% of success. He reflects on love, naming his wife, Sheila Kelley, as the greatest love of his life, noting their deepening bond. When pondering death, he quips, "There are no more interviews." Other tidbits include his celebrity crush on Diane Keaton, a guiltiest pleasure of bad movies, and a preference for more sex over fame or money, once basic comfort is achieved.
Career Highlights and Future Hopes
With an Emmy award for The West Wing and roles spanning decades, Schiff's career is marked by versatility. He mentions Jessie Buckley as his choice to play him in a biopic and expresses regret towards his parents, hinting at a future book. His thoughts on what keeps him awake? "Wondering why I can’t sleep." This interview offers a glimpse into the mind of an actor who balances humour with introspection, making his insights both entertaining and profound.
