Ep 13. Helen Hunt
- April 15, 2001
Inside the Actors Studio season 7 episode 13 features one of the most talented and accomplished actresses in Hollywood, Helen Hunt. Throughout the episode, Hunt discusses her early beginnings as a child actress, her rise to fame in the classic sitcom Mad About You, and her transition into feature films, television dramas, and stage productions.
During the episode, host James Lipton delves into Hunt's early experiences in the entertainment industry, discussing her parents' careers and how that influenced her own passion for acting. Hunt also shares how she balanced her education while pursuing her acting dreams and how her early training at the renowned acting school, The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, prepared her for the roles she would go on to play.
As the discussion continues, Hunt reflects on her early work in various television shows and commercials before landing the role of Jamie Buchman in Mad About You. Hunt shares how working on the show for seven seasons allowed her to explore her comedic talents while also cementing her place in Hollywood.
The conversation then turns to Hunt's notable film performances, including her Academy Award-winning role in As Good as It Gets, which she describes as one of her career-defining moments. Lipton and Hunt also discuss her work in films such as Twister, Cast Away, and The Sessions, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Hunt also talks about her portrayal of complex and flawed characters in various television dramas, such as her Emmy-nominated performance in Empire Falls and her role in FX's Feud. She discusses how these roles challenged her as an actress and allowed her to explore different aspects of human nature.
Throughout the episode, viewers gain insight into Hunt's approach to acting, her creative process, and what she values most as an artist. She also shares personal anecdotes about her life and career, offering viewers a glimpse into the woman behind the performances.
As the interview draws to a close, Lipton presents Hunt with the show's famous questionnaire, where she shares her favorite curse word, the profession she would attempt if she weren't an actress, and what she hopes to hear when she meets her maker.
Overall, Inside the Actors Studio season 7 episode 13 provides an in-depth and captivating look into the life and career of Helen Hunt, one of Hollywood's most talented and respected actresses.
