George Clooney's Bold Take on His Acting Range

Los Angeles, Aug 5 (PTI) – Renowned Hollywood star George Clooney remains unfazed by perceptions that he merely plays versions of himself in his films, having carved a niche for himself over several years in the industry.

Clooney, who has built an impressive portfolio with both acting and filmmaking credits, has delivered notable performances in films such as "Ocean's Eleven," "Gravity," "O Brother, Where Art Thou?", and "Michael Clayton." As a director, his work includes "The Ides of March" and "Confessions of a Dangerous Mind."

When confronted with criticism about portraying himself, Clooney explained that not everyone possesses the ability to bring varied characters to life. He cited examples of his roles in the comedic "O Brother, Where Art Thou?", the crime thriller "Michael Clayton," and "Syriana" to highlight his range.

"Do people say that I only play myself? I don’t give a s**t. There aren’t that many guys in my age group that are allowed to do both broad comedies like 'O Brother (Where Art Though?)' and then do 'Michael Clayton' or 'Syriana.' So if that means I’m playing myself all the time, I don’t give a s**t. Have you ever tried playing yourself? It’s hard to do," Clooney shared in a Vanity Fair interview.

Clooney also reflected on his career journey, noting that he didn't achieve substantial success until the age of 33, nearly 12 years into the industry. The 64-year-old actor debuted in 1978 with the television mini-series "Centennial."

"I've been the beneficiary of having my career not be massively successful in lots of different directions," he added. "I didn’t really get successful, in the kind of success that can be blinding, until I was 33 years old. I’d been working for 12 years at that point. I had a real understanding of how fleeting all of it is and how little it has to do with you, quite honestly," Clooney remarked.

The acclaimed actor is set to appear next in the Netflix comedy-drama "Jay Kelly," where he will portray the titular character. The film, featuring Adam Sandler in a leading role, is scheduled for a November release.