The acclaimed actor, now in his late forties, recently sat down with contributor Emma Lane to discuss his latest film role, the joys and challenges of fatherhood, and a memorable moment when he lost his son in a grocery store.
How did it feel to take on a villainous character this time?
It was exhilarating to embrace such a devious role! I even had to check in with the director to see if I was enjoying it too much. It’s not every day I get to play a character who is so unapologetically wicked. My character believes he has created the ultimate robot and bets his entire career on its success. When a superior product emerges, he becomes relentless in his quest to win—after all, who enjoys losing?
You certainly don’t fit the mold of a loser.
It’s fascinating how I don’t feel that way internally. Many of the opportunities that have come my way were unexpected, and perhaps that’s a good thing. Approaching each project as an underdog can be beneficial. I’ve always focused on hard work, and honestly, I’m surprised by how many chances I’ve received. Of course, I’ve faced rejection too—back in the day before YouTube, I lost out on many auditions that now seem to resurface online.
What were the early days of your career like?
When I finished drama school, I made a pact with myself to pursue acting for five years. I was already 26 and had spent the previous eight years working various jobs. I recognized that acting is akin to running a small business; you have to invest everything before you can truly assess your efforts. Just before my self-imposed deadline, I landed the role of Wolverine in X-Men, and the rest is, as they say, history.
Despite your success, you seem to prioritize being a husband and father.
My love for my wife is profound, but nothing could have prepared me for the intense love I feel for my children. It’s an overwhelming emotion. The mere thought of them facing any harm or trouble sends me into a protective instinct. I remember one particularly harrowing hour in a supermarket when I lost sight of my son; it felt like the longest hour of my life.
What do you find significant in your everyday life?
People often ask me how I manage to perform the same show repeatedly on Broadway. Truth is, our daily lives mirror that routine—we engage in similar relationships and encounter the same patterns. Each time offers a new opportunity for growth. My acting teacher used to say, “Acting is the best training for life,” and he was absolutely correct. We have the chance to revisit the same performance and enrich it each time. Isn’t that what life’s all about?
This conversation highlights the joys of parenthood alongside the challenges that come with it. If you’re interested in topics surrounding pregnancy and home insemination, you can explore more on home insemination kit and check out this excellent resource for insights on the IVF process. For those looking into practical options, this authority on the topic offers valuable information.
In summary, Hugh Jackman candidly shares how fatherhood has transformed his life, revealing an unimaginable depth of love. His journey from aspiring actor to a celebrated star, while keeping family values at the forefront, resonates with many.