Irish actor Paul Mescal, known for his emotionally complex roles, is contemplating a shift in his career. Having gained recognition through the acclaimed series Normal People and the film Aftersun, his performances have depicted male suffering with a poignant authenticity. Mescal’s accessible appearance contrasts sharply with the depth of emotion his characters convey.
Current Projects and Future Aspirations
Mescal is currently immersed in rehearsals for his role as Paul McCartney in a Sam Mendes film about The Beatles. Meanwhile, he promotes Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet, where he portrays William Shakespeare. Describing the preparation for Hamnet as “dream work,” he emphasizes the profound creative process that allows actors to connect deeply, stating, “It felt like we were walking around exposed the whole time.”
Reflections on Artistic Direction
- Mescal has played various sad characters such as Connell in Normal People and Will in Hamnet.
- He acknowledges the emotional weight these roles carry.
- Despite his success, he is contemplating a departure from consistently portraying troubled figures.
In his own words, Mescal reflects on the saturation of sadness in his roles, saying, “I don’t know if I’ll have more to say with roles like Will or Lionel.” He recognizes the interconnectedness of these characters but is uncertain about continuing down the same path. Mescal values authenticity in his work, emphasizing that decisions driven by audience expectations could lead to creative burnout.
Career Philosophy
Mescal believes in making choices that resonate with him personally. “If you’re making career decisions with an audience in mind, you’re…fucked,” he states bluntly. This philosophy underscores his commitment to authenticity, suggesting that he prefers to create art that reflects his immediate truths rather than aspiring to fulfill external expectations.
As he navigates his evolving identity as an artist, Mescal remains open to new directions. His journey reflects a desire for both personal growth and artistic freedom, marking a potential turning point in his career.
