Hamish Linklater Says Fame for Long Monologues Has Made His Career “Torture”
Hamish Linklater has won attention and steady work for performing long, powerful monologues on shows like Gen V and Midnight Mass. Yet despite those successes, he has described his career as “torture,” and he is now facing the downside of being both recognizable and in demand.
What he’s known for
Linklater has earned praise for extended monologues in television. For example, his performances in Gen V and Midnight Mass drew attention from viewers and casting teams alike. As a result, he has picked up roles and a growing fanbase over recent years.
Why he calls it “torture”
According to reports, Linklater described his situation as “torture.” In short, the more those monologues succeeded, the more he was identified with that particular skill. Consequently, he says the attention has created pressure and limitation in the kinds of parts offered to him.
Monologues and casting
His long, single-take speeches are a clear strength. However, casting directors and producers often notice a standout trait and then seek it out repeatedly. Therefore, Linklater’s distinctive monologue work has led to additional similar offers, rather than a wide variety of different roles.
The impact on his career
In short, Linklater’s success has been double-edged. On one hand, the monologues brought visibility and jobs. On the other, they have made him highly associated with a single skill, which he has called “torture.” Going forward, this dynamic may influence the types of projects he accepts and how casting directors consider him.
