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Walton Goggins on Acting: How Authenticity Fuels an Actor’s Journey
Written by Mark Pegg on April. 12th 2025
At Acting Academy, we often highlight invaluable insights from actors who've navigated their careers with authenticity and courage. In a recent candid interview, Walton Goggins shared profound lessons for actors, emphasizing how each experience, big or small, comedy or drama, contributes meaningfully to an actor’s development. Here are his key insights and advice for aspiring actors:
Every Experience Counts

Reflecting on his diverse roles—from Vice Principals and Justified to Django Unchained—Goggins emphasizes that an actor’s journey is cumulative:

"It's the sum total of all the roles, big or small, comedy or drama, that leads you to where you are. I am grateful to be known for all of it and none of it, really."

For acting students, his advice is clear: Embrace every role. Each character, scene, and interaction deepens your craft.

Don’t "Play" Characters—Become Them

Goggins stresses the importance of authenticity:

"I don't believe in playing characters or making choices. These people just jump off the page."

He advises young actors to focus on understanding their characters deeply enough that their portrayal becomes instinctive rather than forced:

"My job is to interpret these words and understand who this person is and make them as real as possible."

Comedy and Drama are One

Discussing roles in Vice Principals and The Righteous Gemstones, Goggins explains:

"I don't believe in playing dramas or comedies differently. Every role must be rooted in real life."

For acting students, this means developing versatility and emotional honesty, regardless of genre.

The Power of Collaboration and Chemistry

On the importance of genuine connection, Goggins shares how his chemistry with Timothy Olyphant shaped Justified profoundly:

"The chemistry between Tim and I was palpable from the first day. Regardless of their differences, these characters had history and respect."

His advice for actors is to embrace genuine connections on set, as they significantly enhance performances and storytelling.

Trust in Your Unique Perspective

Speaking about his role in Justified, Goggins reveals he initially refused the part due to concerns over authenticity:

"I didn’t want to participate in perpetuating stereotypes. The South is way more complicated."

His decision illustrates a powerful lesson for actors: Trust your instincts and your unique perspective. It can lead to richer, more meaningful roles.

Respect the Text, Especially with Great Writing

Reflecting on working with Quentin Tarantino in Django Unchained and The Hateful Eight, Goggins stresses the actor’s duty to respect exceptional writing:

> "You don’t deviate from Quentin’s words. It's perfection, like the best meal you've ever had."

The takeaway for acting students? Deeply understand the writer's intent. Great acting serves the story first and foremost.

Commit Fully—Regardless of the Outcome

When auditioning for Django Unchained, Goggins demonstrated unparalleled commitment:

"I didn’t care if I got the job. I wanted the chance to say Tarantino’s words in front of him."

His advice: Approach auditions as opportunities to showcase your passion and commitment, not merely steps towards booking a job.

Embrace Growth and Evolution

Discussing his role in Fallout and how it required portraying a character at different life stages, Goggins highlights growth and evolution:

"We're all different at various ages. Understanding the evolution of your character enriches your performance."

Acting students should approach their roles with an openness to growth, both personally and within their characters.

Final Thoughts

Walton Goggins's approach underscores that successful acting is about authenticity, commitment, and embracing every experience as an essential part of your growth. As you build your career, remember his words:

"If you come from your heart and believe it, the audience will believe it too."


About Acting Academy
Acting Academy offers professional online acting courses, combining flexible weekly lessons, tutorials, and practical workshops. Tailored for all actors, it includes a graduation showcase for agents and casting directors, plus LAMDA exam preparation for those seeking recognized qualifications. Membership options start from £18.99 per month with a 14-day free trial, and premium members enjoy perks like free tutorials. It's designed to help students learn at their own pace while providing access to industry opportunities.

About Author: Mark Pegg

Mark Pegg trained at the Academy of Live and Recorded Art and became a popular face on British television screens in the role of Alfie Kane in EASTENDERS and Tony Wier in the BAFTA winning and critically acclaimed OUR FRIENDS IN THE NORTH. 

Mark’s film producing credits include HEROES & VILLAINS released in the UK by Lionsgate and starring James Corden and Jenny Agutter, the award winning documentary TOVARISCH: I AM NOT DEAD and most recently DREAM ON starring Richard Coyle, Sienna Guillory and Sam Torrence. Forthcoming projects on the slate include RED CARD a thriller scripted by veteran writer Don Shaw set in the murky world of professional football. 
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