George Clooney is not interested in retiring

When Billy Crudup first met George Clooney 15 years ago, the actors presence was undeniable. It was clear right away: Hes George Clooney through and through, Crudup remarks about his co-star in the Netflix dramedy Jay Kelly (available in select theaters and streaming December 5). He has an innate understanding of his place in the industry and exudes an effortless confidence.

Rewind about four decades, and Clooneys journey looked very different. Early in his career, he struggled through countless failed auditions, including one with Francis Ford Coppola, who reportedly thought Clooney was drunk. Unlike the fictional Jay Kelly, who skyrockets to fame after an initial audition, Clooney did not achieve widespread recognition until age 33, starring in the 1990s medical drama ER.

Success came late in Hollywood terms, Clooney says. I had failed repeatedly13 pilots and seven TV series before ER. My path was long and challenging, probably 100 auditions before earning my first paid role. Rejection builds resilience.

In Jay Kelly, Clooney portrays an aging film icon reflecting on a life that prioritized work over personal connections. Director Noah Baumbach shaped the character with Clooney in mind, even setting the story in Kentucky, Clooneys home state. George has a timeless star quality, Baumbach notes. He could belong to any era of cinema.

Talking candidly with USA TODAY, Clooney discusses how the fictional Jay mirrors aspects of his own life, while also highlighting key differences. He recalls navigating early auditions creatively: befriending a secretary at a small agency and calling as his own agent to secure readings.

The film features running jokes, like Jays constant craving for cheesecake, reminiscent of the quirky demands actors sometimes make. Clooney shares a humorous personal anecdote about a trailer rider for Fuji apples, reflecting on the peculiarities of show business while emphasizing his down-to-earth Kentucky roots.

Playing an actor posed unique challenges for Clooney. At first, Jay seems arrogantsurrounded by people he pays, dismissing others. But I focused on making sure he genuinely believes hes a good person, he explains. He compares this to classic performances by actors like Danny DeVito and Jack Nicholson, who played flawed characters while remaining relatable.

At 64, Clooney seeks roles that challenge him rather than conventional leading-man parts. I want to push myself. Doing Broadway this year terrified me, but it was thrilling, he says, reflecting on his fear and excitement while performing live. Upcoming projects, including one with Annette Bening, continue to test his skills.

On retirement, Clooney is pragmatic yet active. Some things are falling apart physically, but creativity keeps you engaged. You can always find roles, even as you age. I want to continue, but also spend quality time with family. He emphasizes balance with his wife Amal and their children, acknowledging the challenges of maintaining both a career and a family life.

Despite the physical realities of aging, Clooney remains enthusiastic about acting. When I turned 60, I realized in 25 years Ill be 85. Staying active keeps you connected to society, but spending time with loved ones is equally important, he says. Clooneys approach combines dedication to craft with mindful family priorities, illustrating why he remains a prominent figure in Hollywood.

Author: Sophia Brooks