Daniel Day-Lewis Responds to Brian Cox’s Method Acting Criticism
Daniel Day-Lewis reacted to Brian Cox after being unexpectedly pulled into the "Succession" star’s outspoken critique of method acting. Speaking with Big Issue, the three-time Oscar-winning actor addressed Cox’s comments, admitting he was surprised to be part of the debate.
“Listen, I worked with Brian Cox once and somehow got drawn into this handbags-at-dawn conflict inadvertently,” Day-Lewis said. “Brian is a very fine actor who’s done extraordinary work. As a result, he’s been given a soapbox… which he shows no sign of climbing down from. Any time he wants to talk about it, I’m easy to find.”
Day-Lewis added that he never intended to interfere with Cox’s process, nor does he believe he did:
“If I thought during our work together I’d interfered with his working process, I’d be appalled. But I don’t think it was like that. So I don’t know where that came from. Jeremy Strong is a very fine actor, and I don’t feel responsible in any way for that.”
Background on Cox’s Comments
Brian Cox originally criticized method acting in 2021 while discussing his “Succession” co-star Jeremy Strong’s commitment to playing Kendall Roy. At the time, Cox attributed Strong’s approach to Day-Lewis’ influence, calling method acting a distinctly “American disease.” He reiterated his views in 2023, saying:
“He’s a very good actor. And the rest of the ensemble is all OK with this.”
Author’s Summary
Day-Lewis dismissed Brian Cox’s renewed criticism of method acting, calling it an overblown misunderstanding and affirming his respect for both Cox and Jeremy Strong.