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Published Oct 1, 2017

Episode 851 - Elliot Gould

Marc Maron and Elliot Gould delve into Gould's artistic journey, exploring his struggles with criticism, authenticity in acting, and iconic Hollywood experiences, while reflecting on how his Brooklyn upbringing and family dynamics fueled his path to self-discovery and resilience.
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  • Family Dynamics

    Elliot Gould's upbringing in Brooklyn was marked by complex family dynamics that significantly influenced his development. He recalls his parents' strained relationship, which led to his early feelings of repression and inhibition. Despite these challenges, he found solace in a song and dance school, which became a pivotal outlet for his creativity. Gould reflects on his parents' influence, stating, "I was my parents. I am my parents. To blame my parents. I would say to myself, how could things be like this? How did things come to this? And I understand it. They did the best they could."

    I was my parents. I am my parents. To blame my parents. I would say to myself, how could things be like this? How did things come to this? And I understand it. They did the best they could.

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    Gould's reflections reveal a deep understanding of his family's impact on his life and career choices 1 2.

       

    Finding Balance

    Finding balance was a crucial part of Elliot Gould's journey, both personally and professionally. He describes a moment of clarity while looking over the ocean, realizing the importance of balance in life. This insight was pivotal in shaping his approach to challenges and expectations. Gould shares, "We take everything for granted. We think that what we think is the truth. We only make it the truth. It's not necessarily the truth."

    We take everything for granted. We think that what we think is the truth. We only make it the truth. It's not necessarily the truth.

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    His early memories, including interactions with notable figures like James Barton and Milton Berle, further enriched his understanding of life and career 3 4.

       

    Acting Origins

    Elliot Gould's introduction to acting was deeply intertwined with his early life experiences. Initially a tap dancer, he transitioned into acting, driven by a desire to communicate through memorized routines. His first film role in "The Confession" marked the beginning of his acting career, despite having no formal training. Gould reflects on this transition, saying, "I want to act. I didn't know how to act. I'd never been in a movie."

    I want to act. I didn't know how to act. I'd never been in a movie.

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    His journey from song and dance school to the silver screen highlights the influence of his upbringing on his career path 5 6.

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