Daniel Day-Lewis Responds to Brian Cox’s Criticism of Method Acting
Daniel Day-Lewis responded to Brian Cox after being drawn into the “Succession” star’s criticism of method acting. In an interview with Big Issue, the three-time Oscar winner said he was surprised by Cox’s remarks, noting that the two had worked together once and that he had no intention of causing conflict.
“Listen, I worked with Brian Cox once and got somehow 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 made it clear there was no friction during their past collaboration.
“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, I don’t know how he goes about things, but I don’t feel responsible in any way for that.”
Brian Cox’s Past Comments
Brian Cox first criticized method acting in 2021, referring to his “Succession” co-star Jeremy Strong’s intense approach as part of what he called an “American disease.” In 2023, Cox reiterated his stance, though he acknowledged Strong’s skill as an actor.
“He’s a very good actor,” Cox told the magazine. “And the rest of the ensemble is all OK with this.”
Author’s Summary
Daniel Day-Lewis responded calmly to Brian Cox’s criticism of method acting, expressing respect for Cox while dismissing tension or influence over Jeremy Strong’s performance.