Daniel Day-Lewis Responds to Brian Cox’s Criticism of Method Acting
Daniel Day-Lewis has responded to Brian Cox after being unexpectedly drawn into the “Succession” star’s outspoken criticism of method acting. Speaking to Big Issue, the three-time Oscar winner expressed surprise at Cox’s remarks, clarifying his perspective on their past collaboration and the broader debate over acting methods.
“Listen, I worked with Brian Cox once and somehow got drawn into this handbags‑at‑dawn conflict inadvertently,” Day‑Lewis said. “Brian is a very fine actor who has done extraordinary work. As a result, he’s been given a soapbox… which he shows no sign of climbing down from. Any time he wants to talk about it, I’m easy to find.”
The actor added that he never interfered with Cox’s process during their project together.
“If I thought during our work together I’d interfered with his working process, I’d be appalled. But I don’t think it was like that. So I don’t know where the f–k that came from. Jeremy Strong is a very fine actor; I don’t know how he goes about things, but I don’t feel responsible in any way for that.”
Background of the Dispute
Cox first voiced his criticism of method acting in 2021, pointing to his co‑star Jeremy Strong’s immersive approach while portraying Kendall Roy in HBO’s Succession. He linked Strong’s style to Day‑Lewis’s celebrated method technique, calling it an “American disease.” Cox later reaffirmed his stance in 2023, though he acknowledged Strong’s talent.
“He’s a very good actor,” Cox told the magazine. “And the rest of the ensemble is all OK with this.”
Author’s Summary
Day‑Lewis firmly dismissed Cox’s critique of method acting, defending his own process and emphasizing mutual respect despite their differing artistic philosophies.