Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard: Episode Featuring Jude Law

Release Date: November 11, 2024

Hosts:

• Dax Shepard
• Monica Padman

Guest:

• Jude Law – Acclaimed British actor known for roles in The Talented Mr. Ripley, Sherlock Holmes, Fantastic Beasts, and his upcoming projects The Order and Skeleton Crew.

1. Introduction and Guest Overview (00:00 - 05:07)

Dax Shepard introduces Jude Law, emphasizing his successful acting career with notable roles and upcoming projects. He reassures listeners that despite Jude not venturing into law-related fields (a humorous nod to Jude's last name), he is far from a failure.

Notable Quote:

• Dax Shepard [00:45]: "Jude Law, though, is not a failure despite not going into jurisprudence."

2. Jude Law’s Upcoming Projects (05:07 - 09:32)

Jude discusses his new film, The Order, slated for release on December 6th, highlighting his diverse roles and the demanding schedule with multiple projects launching concurrently. He touches upon Skeleton Crew, part of the Star Wars Universe on Disney+, and other commitments.

Notable Quote:

• Jude Law [07:33]: "It's a true story about a group of idealists led by this very eccentric doctor that I played."

3. The Emotional Spectrum of Acting (09:32 - 16:27)

Dax and Monica delve into the emotional aspects of acting, particularly Jude’s newfound propensity to cry both on and off the set. They discuss how vulnerability and emotional honesty are integral to Jude’s performances.

Notable Quotes:

• Jude Law [05:49]: "I just cry all the time."
• Dax Shepard [10:28]: "It is so scary sweet that in this mean-ass world you still sing 'Call Me Crazy.'"

4. Early Career and Transition to Hollywood (16:27 - 27:00)

Jude recounts his early days in acting, starting in theater influenced by his parents' involvement in local theater companies. He discusses his initial skepticism about leaving school for a soap opera role, the rigorous demands of acting in a highly intensive environment, and his first foray into professional acting with the soap opera EastEnders.

Notable Quotes:

• Jude Law [22:06]: "I auditioned, I got it. Next thing, as exactly as you point out, I'm in this machine. It's churning out, demanding."
• Dax Shepard [26:10]: "But she was probably just nagging you 'cause she liked you."

5. Mentorship and Influential Figures (27:00 - 45:14)

Jude speaks about significant mentors in his career, notably Matt Damon and director Anthony (likely Anthony Hopkins or another prominent director). He shares insights on how these mentors helped him unlock his potential, embrace confidence, and handle the pressures of fame and acting.

Notable Quotes:

• Jude Law [43:18]: "With Ant, that was the first time I was aware that was the case."
• Dax Shepard [44:41]: "That's something I've learned."

6. Personal Life and Family (45:14 - 62:10)

The conversation shifts to Jude’s personal life, including his relationship with his wife, a behavioral psychologist. They discuss the dynamics of balancing a high-profile career with family life, the importance of empathy, and Jude’s transformation into a more self-aware and loving individual after meeting his wife.

Notable Quotes:

• Jude Law [86:32]: "She's a very awesome person and hugely patient. She puts up with me."
• Dax Shepard [85:18]: "But the skill set that I have observed and appreciate the most is her calm in that scenario."

7. Navigating Fame and Privacy Invasion (62:10 - 94:04)

Jude opens up about the challenges of dealing with fame, including intrusive paparazzi and a traumatic incident involving phone hacking that invaded his family's privacy. He reflects on the psychological impact of such invasions and the struggle to maintain normalcy for his children amidst the chaos of public scrutiny.

Notable Quotes:

• Jude Law [91:07]: "They paid out the thing, clothes. They put one of the guys in prison."
• Dax Shepard [94:30]: "It's just really curious because, like, you have more legal protection there."

8. Reflections on Substance Use and Cultural Shifts (94:04 - 110:43)

The discussion turns to substance use across generations. Jude and Dax compare their experiences with alcohol, noting a decline in younger generations' alcohol consumption in the US while it remains steady or increases among older adults. They explore societal attitudes towards drinking and the personal challenges related to substance use.

Notable Quotes:

• Monica Padman [75:35]: "Your resume is insane."
• Jude Law [94:40]: "I'm trying to live by what I keep telling the kids, which is, hey, we're a team."

9. Upcoming Projects and Collaborations (110:43 - 126:42)

Jude discusses his upcoming involvement in Skeleton Crew, a Star Wars project, and his previous collaborative work with directors like Jesper Borgmann. He highlights the creative process behind these projects, including improvisation and character development, and expresses enthusiasm for future collaborations.

Notable Quotes:

• Jude Law [94:42]: "We fell into a style that worked and built from there."
• Dax Shepard [125:52]: "Have you read Benedict Cumberbatch's thoughts on it? I did a little."

10. Parenting and Emotional Regulation (126:42 - End)

The episode concludes with a heartfelt discussion on parenting and emotional regulation. Jude and Dax share personal anecdotes about teaching their children emotional intelligence, managing vulnerabilities, and fostering supportive family environments. They emphasize the importance of communication and understanding within the family unit.

Notable Quotes:

• Jude Law [137:08]: "We make sure to always have open conversations about how we feel."
• Dax Shepard [138:20]: "We are a team. When one of us shines, the whole team shines."

Conclusion

The episode offers an in-depth look into Jude Law's multifaceted life—his illustrious career, personal struggles with fame and privacy, impactful mentorships, and his dedication to family and emotional well-being. Through candid conversations, listeners gain valuable insights into the complexities of being a highly successful actor balancing public life with personal growth and family responsibilities.

Final Notable Quote:

• Dax Shepard [140:37]: "How I ended up in a race against time to warn those whose lives were in danger."

Highlighted Quotes with Timestamps:

• Dax Shepard [00:45]: "Jude Law, though, is not a failure despite not going into jurisprudence."
• Jude Law [05:49]: "I just cry all the time."
• Dax Shepard [10:28]: "It is so scary sweet that in this mean-ass world you still sing 'Call Me Crazy.'"
• Jude Law [22:06]: "I auditioned, I got it. Next thing, as exactly as you point out, I'm in this machine. It's churning out, demanding."
• Jude Law [43:18]: "With Ant, that was the first time I was aware that was the case."
• Jude Law [86:32]: "She's a very awesome person and hugely patient. She puts up with me."
• Jude Law [91:07]: "They paid out the thing, clothes. They put one of the guys in prison."
• Dax Shepard [94:30]: "It's just really curious because, like, you have more legal protection there."
• Jude Law [94:40]: "I'm trying to live by what I keep telling the kids, which is, hey, we're a team."
• Dax Shepard [140:37]: "How I ended up in a race against time to warn those whose lives were in danger."

Overall Insights:

• Emotional Vulnerability: Jude Law embraces emotional honesty, shedding past reservations to enhance his acting and personal relationships.

• Mentorship Impact: Influential figures like Matt Damon and directors like Anthony have played pivotal roles in Jude's professional and personal development.

• Navigating Fame: Jude discusses the dark side of fame, including privacy invasions and the psychological toll it can take on individuals and families.

• Cultural Shifts in Substance Use: The conversation highlights generational differences in alcohol consumption and societal attitudes towards substance use.

• Family and Parenting: Emphasizing teamwork and open communication, Jude and Dax explore effective strategies for emotional regulation and supportive family dynamics.

Recommendations for Non-Listeners:

This episode is a must-listen for fans of Jude Law and those interested in the intricate balance between public success and personal well-being. It offers a rare glimpse into the life of a celebrated actor, providing inspiration and understanding for navigating one's own challenges and relationships.