Will Harrison, a rising star in the entertainment industry, has had an incredible journey so far, and he has some fascinating stories to tell. With his recent projects, 'Murdaugh: Death in the Family' and 'Punch,' Harrison showcases his versatility as an actor and delves into the world of true crime storytelling.
Unveiling the Full Spectrum of True Crime
Harrison's career took off in 2023 with the hit series 'Daisy Jones & The Six,' which drew inspiration from the real-life drama of Fleetwood Mac. Since then, he's portrayed a range of captivating characters, from David Herold, an accomplice to John Wilkes Booth in 'Manhunt,' to the folk singer Bobby Neuwirth in 'A Complete Unknown.' But it's his recent roles that have truly captured the attention of audiences and critics alike.
In 'Murdaugh: Death in the Family,' Harrison steps into the shoes of Buster Murdaugh, the eldest son of a now-infamous family. The Hulu series explores a tragic event, and Harrison's portrayal adds depth and complexity to the story. But it's his role in 'Punch' that has truly left a mark.
The Power of Empathy in 'Punch'
'Punch' is a powerful play based on a real-life tragedy that occurred in Nottingham, England, in 2011. Harrison plays Jacob Dunne, a young man who accidentally takes a life in a bar fight. The play delves into the restorative justice work of the victim's parents and Dunne, offering a unique perspective on empathy and understanding.
Harrison shares his experience of meeting Jacob Dunne, the real-life inspiration for his character. He describes the freedom and inspiration he gained from spending time with Dunne, which allowed him to fully embody the role.
But here's where it gets controversial... Dunne was unable to travel to the U.S. for the Broadway run due to his status as a convicted felon. Harrison expresses his disappointment, highlighting the challenges that come with such a situation.
Building a Character: The Challenge of Real-Life Portrayals
When it comes to portraying real people, Harrison shares his process. He emphasizes the importance of online references and the wealth of information available for research. However, he also notes the trust he places in the directors and producers, who ultimately guide his interpretation of the character.
And this is the part most people miss... Harrison reveals that he doesn't always seek to meet the real-life person he's portraying. He explains that understanding the 'why' behind their actions is key to developing empathy, even if he doesn't agree with their choices.
In 'Murdaugh,' Harrison focused on Buster's unique perspective as someone who was away from the murders that devastated his family. He believes that Buster's lens offers a tragic and intimate view of the event, providing a powerful narrative for audiences.
A Journey into True Crime and Beyond
Harrison's background and experiences have shaped his understanding of privilege and influence. Growing up in liberal east coast towns, he witnessed a different version of the lifestyle portrayed in 'Murdaugh.' A trip to Hampton, South Carolina, during filming, gave him a glimpse into the world of the story.
The role in 'Punch' came to Harrison through an audition, and he shares his excitement about the theater being his acting foundation. He describes the physical demands of the role and the challenges of conserving energy for the Broadway eight-show week.
As for accents, Harrison's love for British media prepared him for the Nottingham dialect. He found it fun to stay in character and accent throughout the process, even when it led to some light-hearted moments with the director.
Star-Studded Sets and Unforgettable Experiences
Harrison recalls being starstruck by the presence of Patricia Arquette and Jason Clarke on the set of 'Murdaugh.' He praises their professionalism and improvisational skills, sharing how they made him feel like a true part of the family on-screen.
So, what's next for Will Harrison? With his talent and dedication, the sky's the limit. Keep an eye out for this rising star as he continues to leave his mark on the world of entertainment.
