David Costabile Talks 'Billions' and 'Breaking Bad.' Plus, Reviewing 'Barry' and 'Trust' | The Watch (Ep. 238)

Authenticity

David Costabile shares his unique approach to auditions, emphasizing authenticity over conformity. He describes himself as a "side of the pot actor," bringing a distinct perspective to his roles, even if it sometimes works against him 1. This dedication to authenticity is a common thread among the showrunners he works with, who value deeply personal and unique voices. Costabile also recounts the musical challenges he faced while preparing for his role in "Breaking Bad," where he had to learn a complex Neapolitan song, highlighting the intricate preparation involved in his performances 2.

I am my own person. And I'm just like, I want to be that on screen as fully as I can be.

--- David Costabile

His commitment to bringing life to his characters is evident in his dedication to both the musical and dramatic aspects of his roles.

   

Personal Style

Costabile discusses the importance of maintaining personal authenticity while adapting to different roles and production dynamics. He reflects on the challenges actors face when appearing in multiple shows simultaneously, which can strain the suspension of disbelief for audiences 3. The conversation also touches on the dynamics within the "Saturday Night Live" cast, where actors like Bill Hader balance their distinct personalities with the demands of their roles 4.

It's sort of like telling someone about your dream, you know, when you find, of course, people who have been in improv groups or in acting classes find the quirks of acting classes incredibly funny and fascinating.

--- Andy Greenwald

Costabile's insights reveal the delicate balance actors must strike between personal style and the expectations of their characters.