Back in the early days of his career, Bruce Davison received some advice that would shape the course of his life. Legendary director Robert Aldrich, known for iconic films like The Dirty Dozen and What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?, told Bruce, “Don’t aim to be a leading man. By the time you’re 30, no one will remember you.” Instead, Aldrich urged Bruce to embrace the world of character acting. "Play the villains, the victims, the doctors, the lawyers," Aldrich advised. And boy, did Bruce take that advice to heart. As he recounted to Closer, it was a decision that defined his career path.
That wisdom paid off in spades. Now 76, Bruce has built an incredible career spanning five decades, with over 300 credits to his name. His journey began with the 1971 horror classic Willard. A little over a decade later, he earned a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination for his powerful performance in Longtime Companion, a groundbreaking film addressing the AIDS crisis. More recently, Bruce appeared in the final season of Ozark and can currently be seen as Arthur in the hit historical drama 1923. Bruce’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary, and his dedication to his craft continues to shine brightly.
Stepping into the Role of Arthur in 1923
What’s it like playing Arthur in 1923?
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In the world of 1923, I portray an English lord during the Africa sequence. It’s a pivotal moment when my character introduces Alexandra, the lead actress, during a wedding toast. This scene marks the beginning of her relationship with Spencer, setting the stage for the unfolding drama. It’s a rich and engaging role that allows me to explore the intricacies of character development, bringing Arthur to life with depth and authenticity.
Were you able to shoot on location?
Absolutely. We filmed in breathtaking locations across Africa, Malta, and even aboard the legendary Queen Mary. In Africa, we ventured deep into the jungle, capturing settings that perfectly mirrored the Nairobi of 1923. Wildlife was everywhere, and it added an exciting layer to our filming experience. Production would often say things like, “Hold on, let’s wait for that herd of elephants to clear the shot.” It was a truly memorable experience, one that brought the story to life in ways no studio could replicate.
The Secrets Behind Bruce’s Longevity in Hollywood
How do you account for your incredible career longevity?
Honestly, it comes down to sheer survival. The entertainment industry is a wild river, full of unpredictable twists and turns. There have been countless ups and downs throughout my career, but I’ve learned to embrace it all. Sometimes you’re swimming effortlessly, and other times you’re struggling to stay afloat. It’s about adapting, persevering, and always being ready for the next challenge. It’s been quite the ride, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Did your family support your decision to become an actor?
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Not initially, no. When I first expressed my desire to pursue art and attend art school, my family encouraged me to take a more traditional path. They suggested I enroll in Penn State and study liberal arts. It was there that I discovered my passion for theater. I found my tribe—those quirky, creative individuals who walk around muttering lines to themselves. They might seem strange to outsiders, but they’re the heart and soul of the performing arts. It was a transformative experience that set me on the path to becoming the actor I am today.
From Horror Films to Superhero Blockbusters
How did starring in Willard early in your career impact your life?
Well, after that unforgettable kiss with a rat, I went 15 years without kissing another girl on screen! [Laughs] But seriously, it was a game-changer. People still remember it to this day, and it paved the way for a wave of great critter films. In fact, I’ve often found myself at the forefront of new cinematic eras. The same thing happened with X-Men. After that film, the superhero genre exploded, and Marvel films became a cultural phenomenon.
What was it like being an extra in Close Encounters of the Third Kind?
Steven Spielberg and I were neighbors and friends long before he became the legendary filmmaker we know today. I was heading to New York when he invited me down to Mobile, where he was filming the iconic mother ship sequence. Since I had just wrapped Willard, he cleverly hid me behind a hat and mask, keeping me in the shadows. It was an incredible experience, and it was fascinating to witness the rise of Steven and other talented filmmakers like Brian De Palma, George Lucas, Martin Scorsese, and Robert De Niro. They all started out as friends hanging out at Margot Kidder and Jennifer Salt’s beach house, and it was amazing to see them go on to redefine cinema.
