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Character Quote by Steve Carell

“Well, on a personal level, I would never want to take on a character who didn’t have some redeemable qualities. Even the worst of people, such as Michael Scott in The Office [Carell’s character in the US version of the Ricky Gervais sitcom], have some decent human qualities that you can latch onto.” quote by Steve Carell
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“Well, on a personal level, I would never want to take on a character who didn’t have some redeemable qualities. Even the worst of people, such as Michael Scott in The Office [Carell’s character in the US version of the Ricky Gervais sitcom], have some decent human qualities that you can latch onto.”

Steve Carell

About This Quote

Source Interview: Acting Choices, 2012

Even flawed characters need redeemable traits to connect with audiences.

In simple terms: Bad people can still be relatable.

Key Takeaway

Seek humanity in every role.

Themes

acting character empathy

Mood

reflective empathetic

Type

analytical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • casting
  • script analysis
  • performance coaching

Key Concepts

humanism character development

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes a villain likable?
  • How to balance flaws and virtues?
A Different Perspective

Risk of glorifying negative behavior.

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