Richard Eyre Opens Up in Candid Interview
Renowned director Richard Eyre, aged 82, has revealed intimate details about his life, from his guiltiest pleasure to his deepest disappointments. In a recent interview, Eyre, known for films like Iris and Notes on a Scandal, offered a glimpse into his personal and professional world.
Early Life and Career Highlights
Born in Devon and educated at the University of Cambridge, Eyre began his career as an actor before rising to prominence as the artistic director of the National Theatre from 1987 to 1999. He is currently involved in shooting The Housekeeper and directing Strindberg's Dance of Death at Richmond's Orange Tree theatre until 7 March. Married with a daughter, he resides in London.
Personal Reflections and Guilty Pleasures
When asked about his guiltiest pleasure, Eyre confessed to reading thrillers, a pastime he enjoys despite any reservations. He also shared that his happiest period was in the 1980s, a time of personal and professional fulfillment.
Eyre's greatest fear is failure, a sentiment that drives his work. He deplores impatience in himself and intolerance in others, highlighting values of patience and acceptance.
Challenges and Disappointments
One of the most poignant aspects of the interview was Eyre's discussion of his wife's illness. He expressed unhappiness over her Alzheimer's diagnosis, describing it as a source of despair that has led him to cry recently. This personal struggle contrasts with his public persona as a successful director.
Eyre's biggest disappointment stems from his university days in the 1960s, when he believed social justice would improve exponentially. He now reflects on this as a misguided hope, acknowledging how wrong he was.
Humorous and Harsh Moments
The interview included lighter anecdotes, such as Eyre's most embarrassing moment: having to leave a theatre stage during a masterclass due to a sudden need to use the restroom. He described himself in three words as curious, energetic, and droll.
On a harsher note, Eyre recalled the worst thing anyone has said to him: playwright Edward Bond called him like a turd flowing on the effluent of British culture. Despite this, Eyre maintains a sense of humor and resilience.
Love, Regrets, and Life Lessons
Eyre identified his wife, Sue Birtwistle, as the greatest love of his life, though he noted her condition has diminished her presence. He expressed regret for not being more gracious when his father apologized on his deathbed, a moment he wishes he could revisit.
When it comes to life lessons, Eyre emphasized endurance as the most important. He believes that after death, the rest is silence, a philosophical view on mortality.
Other Insights
- Eyre's most unappealing habit is swearing, and he overuses phrases he admits are unprintable.
- He imagines himself in his mid-40s but is confronted by his aging appearance, which reminds him of his father.
- If he could bring something extinct back to life, he would choose Shakespeare, reflecting his passion for theatre.
- His closest brush with the law involved giving evidence at the Old Bailey during the Brixton riots, after a neighbor was assaulted.
- Anxiety keeps him awake at night, and he hopes to be remembered simply for being remembered.
This interview offers a comprehensive look at Richard Eyre's multifaceted life, blending humor, sadness, and wisdom in a unique portrait of a cultural figure.
