The multi-Emmy winner talks about playing FDR and his long career
Ed Asner as FDR.
Ed Asner is an iconic figure and multi-Emmy winner for his work on The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Lou Grant. For the last three years he has been bringing another iconic figure to life in the one-man show FDR, about Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The play will be presented at the Stockton Performing Arts Center on Saturday, Oct. 22, 7:30pm. Tickets are $30 and $45.
In a recent phone conversation, Asner talked about his career and playing FDR.
How much research did you do into the life of FDR?
I didn’t do anything initially other than my constant worship of FDR. Subsequently, I’ve read a number of books and I’m delighted to say that the script is not butchering the facts. There was a vast and huge ego there but most of the time he used it benevolently.
What’s the biggest challenge in playing such an iconic figure?
Well I don’t look like him and I don’t sound like him. Those are a couple of big hurdles I have to get over, but I’m glad to say most people don’t have any complaints by the time they see the show.
How tough is it to be by yourself on stage?
When I first started with the show I’d be out there for 10 or 15 minutes, I’d think, ‘Jesus Christ, I’ve got to be out here alone for another hour and a half.’ Then I buckle up and continue on.
Have your feelings about FDR changed as you’ve done this play?
They’ve only been reinforced. As a sophomore coming home from high school I heard the news [that FDR died]. You thought, ‘What will happen to America?’ How will America ever be as great as it was under Roosevelt?’
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1. Anonymous said... on Oct 24, 2011 at 06:10PM
“Obviously the interviewer didn't know much about FDR or his history. Hence (after four questions) changing the subject to entertainment, Asner. Asner was accomodating.
Ignorance of history condemns us to repeat it, as we are.”