The William Morris Agency handled me. In that business, you’re only as good as your last picture.
Meaning of the quote
In the acting world, your value and success depend on how well your most recent movie or show did. It doesn't matter what you've done in the past – if your latest work isn't popular, people won't think you're as good of an actor anymore. The company that represented Johnny Weissmuller, the William Morris Agency, understood this. Your reputation and opportunities as an actor are tied to your latest performance.
About Johnny Weissmuller
Johnny Weissmuller was an American Olympic swimmer and actor who dominated the 20th century competitive swimming scene. He later went on to play the iconic role of Tarzan in a series of films, cementing his legacy as a true Renaissance man of his era.
Tags
More quotes from Johnny Weissmuller
I have always been vitally interested in physical conditioning. I have long believed that athletic competition among people and nations should replace violence and wars.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
Swimming gave me my start, but my pal Tarzan did the real work. He set me up nicely.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
How can a guy climb trees, say Me Tarzan, You Jane, and make a million?
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
The director sent for me for Tarzan. I climbed the tree and walked out on a limb. The next day I was told I was an actor.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
I could make good time because I was so long and skinny, shooting through the water like a stick.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
I never lost a freestyle race. Never. Not even in the YMCA.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
When people don’t know me any more or want my autograph, then I’ll think about retiring.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
Can you imagine – a blond Tarzan?
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
No marriage can stand up under the strain of incessant association.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
With but few exceptions, it is always the underdog who wins through sheer willpower.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
Throughout my career I swam for form. Speed came as a result of it.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
All the guys called the Olympic Village a high-class Boy Scout camp.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
Treat your body well, and it’ll see you through for many years.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
I need freedom to be happy.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
I learned to yodel pretty well. It took me a few months, but I eventually perfected it.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
The William Morris Agency handled me. In that business, you’re only as good as your last picture.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)
We didn’t have the lane ropes, we had to get up higher in the water to avoid the little waves.
American swimmer, water polo player, and actor (1904-1984)