I think a performer should do his work and then shut up.
Meaning of the quote
A performer's job is to do their work well, such as acting in a movie or play. Once they've completed their performance, they should stop talking and let the audience decide what they think about it. The performer's work should speak for itself, without the performer constantly explaining or defending it.
About Richard Widmark
Richard Widmark was an acclaimed American actor known for his villainous roles in film noir and his later transition to more heroic leading and supporting parts. He was nominated for an Oscar and won a Golden Globe for his breakout performance in the 1947 film ‘Kiss of Death’.
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More quotes from Richard Widmark
John Ford was so funny that I couldn’t wait to go to work in the morning.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
There was something about Marilyn. She couldn’t act her way out of a bag, but she became an icon because something happened between her and the lens, and no one knows what it is.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
I was never a part of the Actor’s Studio, because two friends of mine started it in 1947 and by that time I’d gone to California.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
A lot of actors said they hated the studio system, but I loved it. It was like a college; it was a great place to learn.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
I think a performer should do his work and then shut up.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
Ford used to come to work in a big car with two Admiral’s flags, on each side of the car. His assistant would be there with his accordion, playing, Hail to the Chief.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
I felt pretty comfortable with Westerns, apart from the fact I couldn’t ride.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
I loved Jack Ford. I got him in his later days, and he was a total tyrant and a total autocrat and an Irish drunk. But I had a great time.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
Gary Cooper was a good friend. He was a great nature lover. He was like an American Indian, he knew every leaf that was turned over. It was an education to go for a walk with him.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
You have to compromise all the way. The only thing that counts is the result.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
Cheyenne Autumn was received not too successfully. I still think it was a very good movie. It was kinda Ford’s apology for the way he had treated Indians in his past pictures.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
I was playing this horrible part. I didn’t didn’t want to play it because the character was an awful racist. But I’m glad I did it because I met Sidney Poitier.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
Anne Baxter was a very good actress, Donna Reid was great. You couldn’t name an actress I wasn’t crazy about.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
Marilyn was terrible to work with. I was fond of her, she was a nice girl, but she was a damaged girl. She was very difficult. You couldn’t get her on the set; she didn’t know the words.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
Other actors like to rehearse on film-they like 30 or 40 takes. When you get an actor like that, it becomes difficult for me because I’m ready to quit after number two.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
Mankiewicz was a brilliant director.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
Hoods are good parts because they’re always flashy and attract attention. If you’ve got any ability, you can use that as a stepping stone.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
Many of my friends were blacklisted. America should be ashamed of it forever.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
Kazan was an old friend, I met him in 1938. He picked up radio jobs for eating money, so I met him on a couple of radio shows. Later on I was in a play he directed.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)
Most movies are made today for teenage boys. Once in a while a good one comes along.
American actor and producer (1914-2008)