Gillian Anderson recently revealed the challenges she faced while portraying Eleanor Roosevelt in the series “The First Lady,” released in 2022. The acclaimed actress, known for her role in “The Crown,” opened up about her experience in an interview with Marie Claire, reflecting on her initial self-doubt when cast as the former First Lady of the United States.
Anderson admitted feeling shocked when approached to play the iconic political figure. She said, “I was very shocked when I was asked to play Eleanor Roosevelt.” The role presented a unique challenge for Anderson, who was conscious of the physical differences between herself and Eleanor Roosevelt. “She was such an extraordinary woman, and you know, I’m five foot three, and she was five foot nine or ten,” Anderson remarked, adding that their dissimilarities contributed to her initial uncertainty.
Despite her self-doubt, Anderson embraced the opportunity, acknowledging the personal challenge the role presented. “First of all, I couldn’t believe I could do it. I really had to stop my self-doubt from getting in the way,” she admitted. However, the chance to embody Eleanor Roosevelt’s character was something she found extraordinary, as it allowed her to delve into the life of someone she deeply admired.
Anderson’s motivation to portray Eleanor Roosevelt was fueled by her desire to study the life of the influential First Lady. She explained, “That’s part of reaching the end goal… You have to convince yourself that you can do things you might not yet be able to do.” Through the experience, Anderson discovered that by acting as if she could succeed, she overcame her fears and embraced the role with confidence.
Her portrayal and the series have sparked discussions about Eleanor Roosevelt’s lasting impact and the power of portraying historical figures. This experience not only highlighted Anderson’s versatility as an actress but also emphasized the importance of challenging oneself, showcasing how overcoming self-doubt can lead to profound personal and professional growth.
