Theo James Admitted Anthony Hopkins Gave Him an Epiphany
Theo James has certainly had an interesting career path. The actor’s resume boasts TV shows like Downton Abbey and Sanditon. Meanwhile, he’s also starred in blockbuster films like the Divergent movies. The Brit is no stranger to streaming either. Currently, he has two projects in the works at HBO. He leads the upcoming series, The Time Traveler’s Wife, and was recently cast in The White Lotus Season 2. He’s also had the opportunity to work alongside prolific actors like Anthony Hopkins and Kate Winslet.
Theo James studied philosophy before becoming an actor
James’ acting accomplishments are even more impressive considering he got a late start in the industry. The Lying and Stealing star didn’t start acting professionally until his mid-20s. Prior to entering the entertainment industry, James went to university and studied philosophy. While at school, he dabbled in making short films and student plays. After graduation, he opted to continue exploring his passion for acting and enrolled at Bristol Old Vic drama school.
The ‘Sanditon’ star was cast alongside Anthony Hopkins for his first professional role
Almost immediately after graduating from drama school, James scored a small win. He was cast in You Will Meet A Tall Dark Stranger. Though the role wasn’t massive, it put the Insurgent star in proximity with Hopkins. This gave James the opportunity to learn from the experienced actor. It also allowed him to study the way that The Silence of the Lambs star interacted with people.
‘It was a small role but he was the first big actor I interacted with and he had an easy charm and a lack of familiarity,” James said of Hopkins while speaking with Metro. “He’s quite warm and friendly, and he’s just himself – which is a good way to be around people.”
James had an epiphany after having a brief conversation with Hopkins
But Hopkins’ demeanor wasn’t the only thing that James took away from working with him. After conversing with the illustrious actor, James had a bit of an epiphany. He realized that he needed to have more interests than just acting. He needed to make sure that he was doing other creative projects also.
“I asked Anthony Hopkins what he was doing the following week,” James recalled. “He said: ‘I’m popping over to Italy where a concerto I’ve written is being performed. After that, I’m off to New York because one of my paintings is on display so I’m quite busy.’ I thought: ‘F***ing hell, I need to start working on other stuff.’ It was an eye-opener.”
James certainly seemed to take his conversation with Hopkins to heart. In addition to acting, he has a love for music and is a singer as well as a guitarist. Furthermore, James has developed a passion for being behind the camera and in front of it. He has produced quite a few projects in addition to acting. Clearly, James is constantly finding new ways to stay busy. We’re sure his fans are eager to see what he chooses to do next.
