For decades, Daniel Day-Lewis has captivated audiences with his gripping and intense performances. He is the proud recipient of three Academy Awards for Best Actor, yet since 2017’s Phantom Thread hit the big screen, it seems he disappeared. So what has this masterful actor been up to? Let’s take a look!
Retirement from Acting
Daniel Day-Lewis has been widely renowned as one of the greatest actors of his generation, so it came as a shock to many when in June 2017, Leslee Dart announced that he would be retiring from acting. Ever since then this retirement declaration has unquestionably proven to be the most noteworthy event in his career.
Day-Lewis is respected for his careful selection of roles and serious dedication to the art form, so it’s no surprise that he would eventually choose to retreat from the limelight.
During interviews, Day-Lewis candidly opened up about his waning interest in acting – a stark contrast to the immense passion and preparation he previously invested for each role. He was renowned for immersing himself completely into character, often requiring months or even years of intense focus before taking on any new part.
Speaking with W magazine in 2017, he conveyed that the compulsion to leave the acting industry had taken hold of him. Although not necessarily shutting down the prospect, it appears unlikely for him to resume his career anytime soon.
Pursuing Other Interests
After retiring from a successful acting career, Daniel Day-Lewis is now dedicating himself to other pursuits. His affinity for crafting has been revealed in recent years as he’s spending more and more of his time building with wood.
In 2018, the actor opened a new workshop in County Wicklow, Ireland where his love for carpentry can be seen firsthand. He often spends hours creating furniture pieces that appear crafted by an expert’s hands – no wonder why this newfound passion keeps him busy!
In recent years, Day-Lewis has been increasingly seen out and about with his wife Rebecca Miller and their children. The notoriously private star even granted a rare interview to The New York Times in 2019 where Miller affectionately described him as a “family man” dedicated to spending quality time with their kids.
Supporting the Arts
Although Daniel Day-Lewis is no longer actively participating in on-screen performances, he continues to be a significant advocate for the arts. As proof of his commitments, in 2019 he was named patron of Home Grown – an up-and-coming theater company created by Sam Yates (director/actor). This organization centers around showcasing fresh works from developing playwrights; thus demonstrating that Day-Lewis’s passion for art remains strong.
Daniel Day-Lewis didn’t just stop at donating money to the British Film Institute during 2020’s COVID-19 pandemic – he donated an impressive sum of funds in order to guarantee that “when we emerge from this crisis, the BFI will be able to continue its invaluable work in supporting the film industry and its audiences.” This type of selfless giving is a testament not only to his character but also to his commitment to helping others.
Future Projects
Although Daniel Day-Lewis has hung up his acting hat, he is still an integral part of the film world. It’s rumored that he is writing a screenplay and may even direct it in the years to come. Additionally, this renowned artist has expressed enthusiasm towards working as a producer or another facet behind the scenes.
It is well-known that Day-Lewis always chooses his roles carefully, so if he ever decided to act again, it would be for a cause close to his heart. In an interview with The New York Times, although the actor stated that he had no plans of returning soon, he left room open for anything in the future. “I don’t know what lies ahead,” said Day-Lewis. “Nobody does, but I’m ready to take on whatever comes my way.”
Conclusion
To sum it up, Daniel Day-Lewis is still an influential figure in the film community even after his retirement from acting. He’s now dedicated to following his passion for woodworking and spending time with those closest to him, such as family members. Additionally, he continues supporting the arts and is even writing a screenplay!
Although his admirers may be disconcerted by his lack of presence in the entertainment world, it’s obvious he is still devoted to acting and backing the arts from other platforms. Here’s wishing that he’ll make a comeback or take on another captivating venture soon; while we wait, let us celebrate his offerings to the film industry and never-ending enthusiasm for advancing art.
