Josh Brolin Isn’t a Fan of Actors Being Difficult For Their Art: “I Just Don’t Buy It”

As an actor himself, Josh Brolin had a different approach when it came to putting on his director’s hat for an episode on the TV series Outer Range.

The Dune: Part Two star recently opened up to Esquire about how he prepared for his television directing debut, as well as what it was like working with actors from behind the camera.

Brolin first expanded on a joke he made during a recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, where he said, “I don’t particularly love actors as an actor.” However, he told host Jimmy Kimmel at the time that he had a different perspective of them from a director’s point of view.

Now, he clarified to Esquire that it’s difficult actors particularly who are harder to work with. “Especially people who won’t come to the set and that kind of shit,” he explained. “If there’s a good reason, I get it, but if you’re just an irritated actor because you’re so creative or sensitive, I just don’t buy it.”

While getting the opportunity to direct episode six of Outer Range abruptly came about, the Avengers: Endgame actor said it was actually due to his experience and skill set that others have witnessed over time.

“When I first met [showrunner] Charles Murray, we just got on right away. He was like, ‘You’re directing six.’ I went, ‘Okay.’ That’s how it happened,” Brolin explained. “It wasn’t like, ‘Hey, do you trust me with directing?’ He’s like, ‘No, I’ve seen the stuff that you’ve done. I’ve spent enough time with you, and this is your niche.’ But it was great.”

Throughout his time working behind the camera, Brolin admitted he learned a lot about himself and his interests.

“I loved it, man. I love the design of it. I love the architecture of it. I love the celebration of it,” he said of directing. “There were a lot of interests that I’ve had through the decades that I never really understood. When I directed, I was able to funnel it all into one place without trying to force it. My whole life made sense.”

He continued, “I’m not going to quit acting and just be a director. But it utilizes more of my sensibilities as a person. I’m naturally a communal person. I get excited by experimenting. To imprison that with just me feels really limiting. But I may just be a mediocre actor.”

Outer Range season two is currently playing on Prime Video.

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