Jared Harris is known for his powerful performances, but he also brings a unique perspective on historical figures. One character he’s keen on portraying is Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th president of the United States. Grant is often misrepresented in history, overshadowed by narratives from southern historians which gloss over his crucial achievements. He played a significant role in military strategy during the Civil War and was instrumental in civil rights, signing the Civil Rights Act and dismantling the Ku Klux Klan. Despite challenges in his presidency, his life story is a testament to resilience—going from selling firewood during the war to holding the highest office in the land.
In discussing his acting journey, Harris shared a rather amusing behind-the-scenes moment from the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Hamlet. The set, designed to mimic a sinking ship, was constantly moving. “It was quite disorienting,” he said, reflecting on how it felt more challenging than the static set in The Terror, where the ship was locked in position during scenes.
Harris also touched on the surprising elements of filming Mad Men. While portraying a character sipping scotch, he revealed that the actors actually drank sugar water and used herbal cigarettes—small details that added authenticity to their performances but were far from glamorous.
Interestingly, Harris’s connection to his famous father, Richard Harris, influenced his career. He jokes about not inheriting his father’s legendary singing voice but kept some of his rugby shirts as mementos. Richard Harris had a reputation that sometimes led to tense situations, with one notable pub encounter turning into a dramatic outburst—a story that brings a glimpse into his father’s fiery spirit.
As for his acting career, Harris’s paths were shaped by his early hobbies. He often wondered what he might’ve done if he hadn’t pursued acting. People thought law could be a good fit for him since he enjoyed debate, but his passion for drama won out. His mother’s encouragement following a university performance was pivotal; it opened up a world where he could share ideas and stories with his father on an entirely different level.
In today’s landscape, actors like Harris reflect changing societal narratives—especially around historical figures. With more attention on nuanced portrayals of the past, there is a growing trend on social media where users share their thoughts on historical accuracy in films and shows.
When actors like Jared Harris take on complex roles, they help reshape our understanding and appreciation of history. The challenge of playing characters who straddle different worlds—like Grant, who was both a soldier and a statesman—makes their work not just entertaining, but essential in the larger conversation about who we are and where we come from.
For more on Jared Harris, check out The Guardian’s interview.
