in the balcony, grumping away.” This quote encapsulates Grant’s approach, blending seriousness with a touch of levity.
The Actor’s Philosophy: Squeezing Pips Until They Squeak
Grant’s philosophy is summarized by his own words: “My philosophy is, go for it! Squeeze the pips until they squeak.” This mantra has guided him throughout his career and personal life. After being nominated for an Oscar for his role in “Can You Ever Forgive Me?,” Grant shares that his late wife, dialect coach Joan Washington, challenged him to find a “pocketful of happiness in every day” four days before her passing due to lung cancer.
This advice has become the title of Grant’s memoir and continues to influence his outlook. “Nobody’s come back, to my knowledge.
So go for it and squeeze the pips till they squeak,” he says with conviction. This philosophy is reflected in how Grant approaches both his work and personal life, finding joy even in challenging roles like the ones he plays.
From Amateur Theatrical Dreams to Hollywood Stardom
Richard E Grant’s journey from an amateur theatre club in Swaziland (now Eswatini) to becoming a star on the international stage is marked by both challenges and triumphs. Born in 1957, he arrived in London at the age of 25 with dreams of becoming an actor but faced mockery and derision as a teenager. Despite these early setbacks, Grant persevered, eventually making his mark in cinema.
His breakthrough came in 1987 with “Withnail and I,” where he played a rain-drenched thespian lush.
Since then, Grant has taken on a diverse range of roles, including an infantile aristocratic patriarch (Saltburn), a capricious advertising executive (Too Much), and a longevity-obsessed billionaire (Death of a Unicorn). His latest role in “Nuremberg” further cements his status as a versatile actor capable of playing complex and nuanced characters.
The Future: More Eccentric Roles and Filmography
Grant is excited about the glut of parts coming his way, especially those that allow him to play camp villains and ageing eccentrics. He reflects on his upcoming projects with a mix of excitement and humor, noting how he often finds himself the youngest actor on set in films like “The Thursday Murder Club.” Despite his advancing age, Grant remains optimistic about his career.
Grant’s philosophy extends beyond acting into his personal life as well. He discusses how it has influenced his outlook on challenges, such as dealing with the passing of his wife and facing the realities of aging. His latest film, “Nuremberg,” is a testament to his commitment to authenticity in his craft while also offering a glimpse into the complex history that continues to shape our world.
