Daniel Day-Lewis Critiques John Wayne’s Acting Style

LOS ANGELES, CA — Daniel Day-Lewis, the acclaimed three-time Academy Award winner, has stated that he does not enjoy watching the films of legendary actor John Wayne. In a candid remark, Day-Lewis shared his thoughts on Wayne, known as ‘The Duke‘ by fans, during an interview.

“I do not like John Wayne; I find it hard to watch him,” Day-Lewis said, explaining that Wayne’s acting did not resonate with him. Despite respecting other Western icons like Gary Cooper, Day-Lewis characterized Wayne’s performances as too static and reliant on a singular persona, lacking the versatility he prefers in character-driven storytelling.

In contrast, Daniel Day-Lewis is known for his transformative roles, fully immersing himself into characters such as Abraham Lincoln in Lincoln and the ruthless lead in There Will Be Blood. This dedication to his craft highlights a stark difference with Wayne, who often portrayed larger-than-life figures.

Interestingly, John Wayne was aware of the perception surrounding his acting. He once stated, “Of course, they give me that John Wayne stuff so much, claim I always play the same role,” acknowledging that maintaining stardom sometimes requires blending personal personality with performances.

Day-Lewis’s early influences came from actors who displayed emotional depth and stoicism, which he admired. He disclosed that he had watched all-night screenings of films, drawing inspiration from performers like Clint Eastwood.

John Wayne, whose real name was Marion Robert Morrison, starred in 165 films over a career spanning 56 years. He is best known for iconic roles in films like Stagecoach and True Grit, but not all his movies were successful. The Conqueror, for instance, is now often viewed as one of the worst films ever made.

Wayne passed away in June 1979 at the age of 72, leaving behind a complex legacy that continues to spark discussions among film enthusiasts.