As a fan of both sports and acting, I can only imagine the thrill that Dave Annable must feel when he watches his favorite teams play or sees himself on screen as a cowboy. His journey from aspiring SportsCenter host to Michael J. Fox-inspired actor is truly inspiring. But let’s face it, being a Dutton on Yellowstone isn’t just about playing a cowboy; it’s about gaining a certain swagger that makes you feel invincible. I mean, who wouldn’t want a “Yellowstone” sticker on their car and walk around with a bit more confidence?
Dave Annable grasps the idea that from some of life’s devastating hardships can emerge transformative experiences, strengthening familial and friendly ties. This notion has been validated in his personal experience as well as within his professional acting journey in Hollywood.
One real-life scenario that tested this theory for Annable happened on Sept. 11, 2001.
Annable reminisces about 9/11, recalling that she was in New York City and it was absolutely chaotic. She went to volunteer but ended up staying until late at night because there was nothing for volunteers to do. Since she didn’t know anyone in Manhattan who could host her, and all the phones were out of service, she had to walk a long way to Fordham [in the Bronx], approximately 60 or 70 blocks. This girl she met was meant to be her first date that night. Surprisingly, they’ve remained friends ever since, with her becoming one of Annable’s best friends in the world. That day, which turned out to be a harrowing experience, holds a special place in their friendship.
Additionally, we find Annable’s character, Lee Dutton, portrayed as the eldest son and first-born child of John and Evelyn Dutton in the hit TV show by Taylor Sheridan, Yellowstone. In the very first episode, Lee is fatally shot during a cattle disagreement by his brother-in-law, Jamie (played by Luke Grimes). However, this tragic event marks the beginning of all the turmoil that unfolds in the Dutton family’s Yellowstone storyline. The second half of its fifth season is set to premiere on Nov 10, and Lee’s character has reappeared in significant flashbacks since then.
In the latest drama series I’ve been hooked on, titled “Lioness” streaming on Paramount+, I find myself immersed in a world created by Sheridan. This show follows a CIA special ops team, led by two ex-military specialists – Zoe Saldaña and Nicole Kidman – who are ready to lay down their lives (and those of others) for their country. In this thrilling narrative, I play Dr. Neal McNamara, a pediatric oncology surgeon and husband to Joe (Saldaña). Among my responsibilities is caring for our sick children and managing our home while my wife, Joe, is away on missions that are undoubtedly brutal, bloody, and psychologically taxing. Yet, she can’t share the details with her family for both her protection and ours. The second season just dropped last Sunday.
Recently, The Hollywood Reporter had a conversation with Annable via Zoom while he was in Austin, Texas. They discussed his career that spans more than two decades, how he became involved with the Sheridan Universe, and the benefits of being a Dutton, even if that role is no longer alive.
***
Even though your hometown is New York, I’m aware that you currently reside in Texas. How did you first encounter the world created by Taylor Sheridan? Let’s discuss that today.
I first met Taylor when my wife, actress Odette Annable, who was coaching him at the time, introduced us. This was during my stint on the show “Brothers & Sisters.” During one scene with her, she asked if I’d ever had a coach, and I recall jokingly saying yes. We were dating then. She then connected me with Taylor. Upon reading a scene with him, his unique perspective on the character and the scene left me astounded. Within minutes, I realized that I hadn’t considered many aspects he pointed out. I immediately recognized his talent, especially his knack for writing and understanding the world. As a mentor, he was always insightful and intelligent.
After that, Yellowstone appeared, and I recall receiving an audition notice. It wasn’t Taylor who sent it; we hadn’t been in contact since I stopped working with him. Eventually, I declined the audition. The following day, my wife received a call from Taylor, and he asked, using strong language, “Why on earth did your man just turn down my show?” I explained to her that I was in New York and that I’m not a cowboy; I believe I’ve only ridden a horse once in my life.
He said, “Tell him to record himself and I’ll look at it later today.” In response, I said, “Alright, I’ll record myself then.” Eventually, I managed to do so and became the top member in Taylor’s fan club. He has even offered us support during our marriage struggles. He is well-acquainted with both of us; he’s the kind of person you’re talking about.
Why did you initially pass on Yellowstone?
Anxiety crept in because I never envisioned myself as a cowboy. I was expected to excel as a horse rider on set, and I didn’t want to disappoint anyone. To put it simply, while some actors might casually claim they can ride horses, I was being truthful by admitting that I wasn’t the right person for the job.
However, what I adore about Taylor is this: When I received it, he phoned while we were in a vehicle, and he proposed, “Hey, would you like to head out to Utah and act the cowboy?” To which I responded, “I’m thrilled, but Taylor, I’ve only been on a horse once.” He replied, “Perfect, we’ll have you on a horse tomorrow in Burbank.” And that’s exactly what we did every day! That’s probably why his shows turn out the way they do. His team, he pushes us to perform!
Similar to how a lioness often works alongside her pride, the QRF team is out there practicing and collaborating with specialized units. In my case, I didn’t receive any specific instructions from him to join a surgeon, but it was more of a personal decision on my part. However, I managed to locate Dr. Russell Ward, who is a pediatric oncologist and is approximately an hour away. I had the opportunity to observe a surgery, walk with him, and discuss his experiences when he returns home after a challenging day, having perhaps lost a patient. This is the kind of real-life insight that I feel we need, as the implications are too significant to rely solely on our imaginations.
It’s clear that you have always been a heartthrob in your roles.
(Laughs) From who? Can I write that down?
As a fan, I’ve always admired your connections with children, especially how it was portrayed in Red Band Society on Fox, and more recently in Lioness with Celestina Harris and Hannah Lanier. Was that something that came naturally to you?
It seems to me that caring for children is an innate part of who I am, something I’ve always felt drawn towards. I’ve spent a lot of time with kids throughout my life, and when my older sister had a child, I found a special connection with him. During my college years, I would often spend time with my nephew, Ryan. This experience made me realize that being a father is something I truly want, and it brings me both joy and challenges. It’s not like a fairy tale, but nothing is more important to me. I believe this genuine affection for children shows in my interactions or when working as a pediatrician because I genuinely care. And that’s one of those things you can’t pretend; it’s something I take pride in. [Annable has two young daughters.]
In the first season, a particularly challenging scene for me involved discussing with parents that their six-year-old child had a tumor as large as a softball and sadly, she wouldn’t survive. This scenario was heartrending, especially since I myself was a father of a six-year-old at the time. As an actor, I found it simpler to delve into such emotions because we rely on our creativity. I believe this makes me an ideal collaborator with Neal, as I sense we share many similarities in our perspectives. He’s far more intelligent and patient than I am – something my wife can attest to – but there are definitely areas where we see eye-to-eye.
Neal and Joe (Saldaña) have probably been together for about 20 years?
Yes, indeed, that’s something we’re currently working on with Taylor. It brings me back to when they first met at college, and based on my recollection, it seems plausible.
It seems maintaining their relationship has been tough, given her line of work. I’m curious about what might be sustaining them. This season, it appears Neal is becoming increasingly curious about their secretive life.
It seems plausible that such a situation may be challenging for them, as communicating about their day or work becomes difficult, and the uncertainty of their whereabouts adds stress. Kudos to every partner who navigates through this realistic scenario, drawn from actual experiences in a program.
It appears to me that love was indeed the foundation for their bond, yet there seem to be signs of strain. In the initial season, perhaps the first episode, a line stands out where she asks him if he’s seeing anyone, to which he responds, “Just stay alive.” This intrigues me as I perceive they might have agreed on a limit to their romantic involvements without crossing a specific boundary. As the series unfolds, it seems they’ve been making compromises. His tolerance is remarkable, unlike what I’d expect myself; I’d probably say something like, “Girl, come on!” (laughs). However, their relationship is beautiful and contemporary, serving as an example to emulate. I appreciate the way they communicate with each other and the support they offer one another. I’m eager to see how their relationship develops and evolves, taking note of its progression.
Isn’t Zoe simply amazing? She’s truly excelling. Watching her in action leaves me exclaiming, “Wow!” She’s such a delight to observe.
If you weren’t in this business, what would you be doing right now?
Ever since I was young, my dream has been to present SportsCenter on ESPN. Being a huge sports enthusiast, that was initially the goal for me. However, my admiration for Michael J. Fox took over when I first saw him on Family Ties. All his movies were releasing around the same time and I thought to myself, “That’s what I aspire to do.” After attempting one comedy role, they told me I wasn’t funny enough, so no more comedy for me. But my passion lies in sports-related work.
“What effects did playing Lee Dutton, the eldest Dutton son from the main series ‘Yellowstone’, whose tenure was brief, have on your acting career?
As a dedicated fan, let me express my heartfelt gratitude. I never anticipated the profound influence that Lee would have on the show’s debut. The pilot episode, with its poignant moment of the son’s demise, left me questioning, “Now what?” That brief yet impactful scene resonated deeply in the show and in my life. It was a privilege to embody a cowboy character, doing things I never thought I would. Nowadays, I carry that spirit with me, no longer trying to hide it. My vehicle bears a Yellowstone sticker, and my sons have finally understood my obsession. “Dad, we get it,” they say. I respond, “I was a Dutton.” The friendship I formed during that time remains strong, and the memories I made with Yellowstone are truly priceless. Lee Dutton and Yellowstone hold a very special place in my heart.
One aspect I truly enjoy about this role is the opportunity to delve into various subjects, albeit briefly. To me, this versatility is an exceptional advantage.
***
The lioness is set to launch the second season’s episodes every Sunday on Paramount+, with the initial two episodes already available for streaming.
Read More
Sorry. No data so far.
2024-10-28 05:55