Ep 15. Joanne Woodward

Inside the Actors Studio season 9 episode 15 features the iconic actress Joanne Woodward. Woodward has received critical acclaim for her performances throughout her career, which spans over five decades. During the episode, host James Lipton delves into her life and career, uncovering the secrets to her success and the challenges she faced along the way.

The episode starts with Lipton introducing Woodward to the stage, where she is greeted with a standing ovation from the audience. The interview begins with Lipton asking Woodward about her childhood, where she reveals that she grew up in the South and that her father was a prominent newspaper editor. She also talks about her early years in acting, where she was advised to take speech therapy to overcome her Southern accent.

Woodward then goes on to discuss her early work in theater, which eventually led to her breakthrough role in the film "The Three Faces of Eve." She talks about the research she did for the role of Eve, meeting with psychologists and patients suffering from multiple personality disorder. In a poignant moment, she also reveals that she was pregnant during filming, which added a personal layer to her portrayal of the character.

The conversation then turns to some of Woodward's other notable roles, including her work with her husband, actor Paul Newman. Lipton asks her about their working relationship, and Woodward reveals that they had a deep respect for each other's craft. She talks about their collaboration on films like "Mr. and Mrs. Bridge" and "The Long, Hot Summer," and how their on-screen chemistry was often a reflection of their real-life relationship.

Throughout the interview, Lipton asks Woodward about her approach to acting and the techniques she uses to craft her performances. She talks about the importance of finding the truth in a character and tapping into her own emotions to bring authenticity to a role. She also discusses the challenges of aging in Hollywood and how she has continued to find interesting and complex roles in her later years.

As the interview comes to a close, Lipton asks Woodward about her legacy in the entertainment industry. She reflects on the many roles she has played, the relationships she has formed, and the impact she has had on younger generations of actors. She also discusses her work as a philanthropist, advocating for causes like the environment and animal rights.

Overall, the episode offers a deep and insightful look into the life and career of one of Hollywood's most beloved actresses. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in acting, filmmaking, or the history of Hollywood.