Josh Charles, a celebrated figure in television and film since his early appearance in John Waters' 'Hairspray', is currently navigating a distinct career phase. Known for his versatility, Charles has recently embraced lighter, more comedic roles, a significant change from the intense characters he has often portrayed. This evolution is particularly evident in his latest series, 'Best Medicine', where he takes on the leading role, a grumpy yet endearing physician in a small town. This shift reflects a conscious decision by the actor to explore different facets of his craft and seek a more serene professional environment.
Charles has had a notable career trajectory, encompassing long-standing positions such as in 'The Good Wife', various limited series including David Chase’s 'We Own This City', and numerous guest appearances in shows like 'The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt' and 'The Handmaid’s Tale'. Despite this extensive and varied experience, he admits that being the central figure in a series intended for a prolonged run is a relatively new experience. His upcoming role in 'Best Medicine', a dramedy on Fox inspired by the British show 'Doc Martin', marks a significant milestone in this regard.
In a recent discussion on The Hollywood Reporter’s podcast, 'I’m Having an Episode', Charles addressed how his recent roles are a departure from his previous 'smarmy' characters. He humorously acknowledged playing 'douchebags' and 'turncoats' in the past, particularly in comedies like 'Wet Hot American Summer' and 'Kimmy Schmidt'. While he enjoyed these roles, he recognized the need for a change after delving into darker material. 'Best Medicine' offered a welcome 'tonic' and a 'nice climate' for his current creative endeavors, allowing him to embrace a more gentle and comedic persona.
A key factor in Charles's decision to join 'Best Medicine' was the commitment to film in New York, which accommodated his family life. Having familiarized himself with the original 'Doc Martin', he found the prospect of the new series appealing. Although the original British show ran for 18 years, Charles acknowledges that his version might follow a different production schedule, potentially producing more episodes per season. While he doesn't envision an 18-year commitment, he is open to a five-year run, indicating a desire for sustained but manageable engagement.
Charles also reflected on the unpredictable nature of an acting career, describing it as 'feast or famine'. He noted that the recent pandemic and industry strikes created a challenging period, mirroring other times of uncertainty in his career. He expressed a deep empathy for actors, highlighting the emotional toll of constant rejection and the need for both sensitivity and resilience in the profession. He underscored that actors, unlike those selling products, are inherently selling themselves, making criticism and rejection uniquely personal.
The actor also shared his preference for more lighthearted and physical comedy as he matures, a direction that 'Best Medicine' allows him to explore. He enjoys playing the 'fool' and engaging in 'silly' acts, finding joy in these comedic elements. Regarding 'The Good Wife', Charles expressed immense pride in the show and its impact. His character's unexpected departure garnered widespread attention, surprising even him with the depth of audience investment. This experience reinforced his understanding of the powerful connection audiences form with characters and storytelling.
In a surprising anecdote, Charles revealed he possesses a Moon Man trophy for his appearance in Taylor Swift’s 'Fortnight' music video. He believes this gesture from Swift, who he describes as a 'class act', was to recognize the contributions of those involved in the video, which went on to win Video of the Year. This unexpected accolade adds another unique chapter to his diverse career, demonstrating the varied and often unpredictable experiences that come with working in the entertainment industry.