Australian actor Anthony LaPaglia has reflected on his extensive career and personal views in a recent interview, offering insights into his experiences in film, television, and theatre. LaPaglia discussed the challenges of working on the long-running television series *Without a Trace*, where the demanding schedule left him feeling disengaged at times. He described the experience as “schizophrenic,” juggling multiple creative roles simultaneously, before concluding that the show's success was largely independent of his extra input.
Among his roles, LaPaglia highlighted the film *Lantana* as the most personally fulfilling. He praised the script by Andrew Bovell for its precision and suspense, noting that he did not feel the need to alter a single word. Preparation for his role as a Sydney police detective included time spent with officers under investigation, an experience he recalled with both humor and poignancy. His observations extended to his hometown of Adelaide, where he still senses a “dark streak” despite the city’s unchanged character. LaPaglia credited Adelaide audiences with being particularly lively and appreciative during his recent work on *Death of a Salesman*.
On the subject of aging and theatre, LaPaglia expressed a pragmatic approach to future roles, emphasizing the scarcity of parts written for older actors. He described himself as “a gun for hire,” reluctant to pursue self-generated projects due to the financial risks involved. He shared candid experiences of investing in Australian film productions, noting issues with funding transparency and financial losses.
LaPaglia also touched on his personal life and future plans, mentioning a possible move to Mexico to avoid anticipated civil unrest in the United States tied to the political climate surrounding former President Donald Trump. He critiqued the Trump administration’s internal dynamics and expressed skepticism about the political prospects of Trump’s family members.
Reflecting on his interactions with fans, LaPaglia recounted a memorable encounter in New York where a passerby vocally expressed dislike for his work, a moment he met with humor. He appreciated the candidness of New Yorkers but indicated a preference for California’s climate and lifestyle.
In addressing professional relationships, LaPaglia dismissed the notion of longstanding enmities, including with filmmaker John Landis. While acknowledging past clashes, he described misunderstandings rather than ongoing hostility and lamented confrontational behavior he found counterproductive on set.
LaPaglia’s memoir, *The Life We Choose*, is set for release on 27 October. The book promises further exploration of his life and career in the entertainment industry.