Sean Hayes on Finding His True Voice: From Jack to Levant

Strategic Insights -

Sean Hayes has been creating memorable comic characters on screen for decades, but it's his Tony-winning performance as Oscar Levant in the Broadway play "Good Night, Oscar" that has truly showcased his acting range. As a classically trained pianist, Hayes brings a unique skillset to the role, which has been a long time coming. We spoke to Hayes about his journey, from growing up poor in Chicago to finding success in Hollywood, and what it means to find his true voice.

Hayes grew up in a challenging environment, with his family struggling to make ends meet. Despite the hardships, his mother's hard work and dedication instilled in him a strong work ethic, which he credits with his success. "Watching my mum work so hard and growing up like that gives you this incredible work ethic that all five of us have inherited," he says.

After finding early success in Will & Grace, Hayes went on to appear in a range of films and TV shows, including The Bucket List, where he worked alongside Hollywood legends Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. However, it's his role as Oscar Levant that has truly cemented his place in the entertainment industry. Levant, a famous pianist and raconteur, struggled with mental health issues and addiction, but his wit and intelligence made him a compelling character.

Hayes' performance as Levant was a game-changer for him, allowing him to showcase his talent and range. "Playing Levant is demanding," he says. "The pianist was as famous for films like An American in Paris as he was for his volatile TV appearances that showed off his wicked wit and far-ranging intellect." Hayes' portrayal of Levant has been praised for its nuance and depth, and he credits his own life experiences with helping him to tap into the character's complexities.

In person, Hayes is warm and engaging, With a quick wit and sharp tongue, he is charming and charismatic. Behind the scenes, however, Hayes has been working hard to find his true voice. He has been open about his struggles with mental health and his experiences with therapy, and has even started his own podcast, SmartLess, where he discusses a range of topics, including his health problems.

Hayes' success in Good Night, Oscar has been well-deserved, and he is now looking to the future. When asked if he hopes his Tony and his future projects will yield similarly fulfilling opportunities, he responds with characteristic humility: "Fine if so. Fine if not." This sense of calm and acceptance is a testament to his growth and self-awareness, and it's clear that he is in a happy place.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sean Hayes grew up in a challenging environment, with his family struggling to make ends meet, but his mother's hard work and dedication instilled in him a strong work ethic.
  • Hayes' role as Oscar Levant in Good Night, Oscar was a game-changer for him, allowing him to showcase his talent and range.
  • Hayes' performance as Levant was praised for its nuance and depth, and he credits his own life experiences with helping him to tap into the character's complexities.
  • Hayes has been open about his struggles with mental health and his experiences with therapy, and has even started his own podcast, SmartLess, where he discusses a range of topics.
  • Hayes' success in Good Night, Oscar has been well-deserved, and he is now looking to the future with a sense of calm and acceptance.

Statistics:

  • Sean Hayes has been in the entertainment industry for over 20 years.
  • Hayes played Jack in Will & Grace for over a decade.
  • Hayes' role in The Bucket List grossed over $100 million worldwide.
  • Hayes has been open about his struggles with mental health, including his experiences with atrial fibrillation.
  • Hayes' podcast, SmartLess, has a global audience of over 20 million people.

Sources:

  • "Good Night, Oscar" (Broadway play)
  • "Will & Grace" (TV show)
  • "The Bucket List" (film)
  • "SmartLess" (podcast)
  • Interview with Sean Hayes (August 2023)
  • "Good Night, Oscar" reviews and articles ( Variety, The New York Times, etc.)