Jared Harris Regrets Never Acting with His Iconic Father

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Does Foundation’s emphasis on small occurrences leading to significant future impacts stir your thoughts concerning the potential future trajectory of our society?

Different paths can branch out at various junctures. Had the U.S. Supreme Court ruled differently in 2000, Al Gore might have taken up the role of president instead. Consequently, our collective approach to climate change may have evolved differently, potentially leading us to a distinct situation today.

Events in Foundation seem to escalate rapidly into significant turning points known as Seldon Crises. Could it be that we are approaching a similar critical juncture in our own history?

It seems to me that we’re perpetually navigating such situations. As a child, I grew up with the looming dread of nuclear annihilation due to the Cold War. Nights were often spent tossing and turning over this ominous reality. Today, we grapple with different types of existential threats.

You wanted to go into space as a child, so is Foundation the next best thing?

Absolutely! The Apollo program was quite a sensation during my childhood years. Regrettably, I didn’t get to witness the Moon landing because my elder brother managed to trick me into drinking something that wasn’t cider – it turned out to be paraffin instead! As a result, we ended up needing medical attention just as Neil Armstrong was taking his first steps on the Moon.

Your TV CV is impressive. What do you look for in a script?

You seem to be searching for a tale that sparks your enthusiasm and captivates your interest. If you find yourself eagerly flipping through its pages and can’t wait to reach the end, then it’s likely a story you should share with others who will be equally thrilled by it.

What was it that excited you about Foundation?

Upon my initial viewing of the first season, I was captivated by the fact that the principal figures had discovered a means to defy death. It’s an intriguing concept that many would dream of mastering, but at what cost does one pay for such power?

In your previous statement, you mentioned that you accepted the role in the Marvel film Morbius due to financial obligations like a mortgage. As an artist, could you share some insights on how you manage the delicate equilibrium between monetary needs and artistic expression in your career?

In my experience, life is often a juggling act between financial responsibilities and caring for loved ones. I rarely come across opportunities that seem too good to be true, but every now and then, a role comes along that seems almost tailor-made: it offers a fantastic part with an exceptional director, the script is superbly written, the pay is generous, and the potential audience is vast. If luck is on my side, I might encounter such a gem just three times in my entire career!

Taking on bigger roles obviously leads to greater recognition. What is your relationship with fame?

I could stroll along the road without interruption. To me, celebrity feels akin to a house of mirrors at a carnival, twisting the perspectives others have of you and how you view the world. It’s quite challenging to manage effectively.

Did you learn any lessons about fame from your father, Richard?

Absolutely. He owned his own private sanctuary where he could retreat. He was consistently true to himself, avoiding the typical Hollywood lifestyle, at least as far as I was aware. As a kid, you often observe from afar, noticing the way people related to him and how he handled such interactions.

How was it growing up in the shadow of such a famous actor?

As a cinema enthusiast, let me tell you, my father wasn’t someone I could compare to others. He was unique, unparalleled. Sometimes, I’d find myself in awe, like when I’d flick on the TV and there he was, dancing on Top of the Pops – an experience that was nothing short of extraordinary. What set him apart was his disregard for conventional norms. He lived by his own rules, a trait that was both exhilarating and perplexing. You see, as a child, you’re taught that certain rules are sacrosanct, guidelines for living. But my father defied all expectations, carving his own path through life.

Do you ever think what it would have been like to share a scene with him as an actor?

One thing I deeply regret is that our attempt at producing “Long Day’s Journey into Night” never came to fruition. There were a couple of instances where we tried, but alas, it didn’t pan out. The time we aimed to assemble the production stands out in my memory. His performances always captivated me; I was continually uncovering fresh insights into his acting process and the thoughts he was trying to convey. If it had happened, I believe it would have been an extraordinary experience.

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2025-07-08 03:06