At the NFTV Festival, two iconic actors, Richard Schiff and Bridget Moynahan, took center stage to share insights into their careers, their experiences in the entertainment industry, and their thoughts on the evolving landscape of television. Known for their outstanding work in hit series like The West Wing and Blue Bloods, Schiff and Moynahan captivated the audience with their candid reflections on the challenges and triumphs of their acting journeys.
A Conversation with Richard Schiff: Embracing Diverse Roles
Richard Schiff, best known for his unforgettable portrayal of Toby Ziegler on The West Wing, began the conversation by discussing the impact that the role had on his career. Although Schiff had been acting for many years before landing the iconic part, he admitted that his time on The West Wing helped solidify his place in Hollywood. “It was a role that really allowed me to express a lot of what I had been working toward in my entire career,” Schiff remarked. He emphasized the importance of taking risks as an actor, citing how The West Wing allowed him to explore a character full of complexity and moral ambiguity, something that spoke to his strengths as a performer.
When asked about his diverse career and the types of roles he is drawn to, Schiff spoke about the importance of character-driven stories. He expressed his belief that the most compelling roles are those that offer depth and authenticity, something that audiences can connect with on an emotional level. “I’ve always been drawn to roles that challenge me, characters that are flawed but also deeply human,” he shared. His passion for portraying multi-dimensional characters was evident throughout the conversation, as he reflected on how each role teaches him something new about himself and his craft.
Bridget Moynahan: Navigating Television’s Changing Landscape
Bridget Moynahan, renowned for her role as Erin Reagan on the long-running police procedural Blue Bloods, also offered valuable insight into her career and the evolving nature of television. Moynahan, who had already established a successful career in both film and television, spoke about the different dynamics of working on a procedural show like Blue Bloods. “Television has changed so much over the years,” she explained. “When I started out, it was more about episodic storytelling, but now, shows are much more serialized, and the audience expects a deeper emotional investment in the characters.”
Moynahan touched on the importance of connecting with her character, Erin Reagan, who is not only a New York City prosecutor but also a loving mother and daughter. “What I love about Erin is that she’s a woman who juggles so many responsibilities but never loses sight of her values,” Moynahan said. The character has become one of the central figures in Blue Bloods, and Moynahan spoke about how playing Erin has influenced her perspective on both acting and personal growth.
When asked about her experiences working with an ensemble cast, Moynahan was quick to praise her colleagues, noting the incredible chemistry they share on screen. “There’s something very special about working with a cast that feels like family. It makes the work more authentic, and that connection translates to the audience.”
The Changing Role of Television in Today’s World
Both Schiff and Moynahan shared their thoughts on the current state of television, acknowledging the challenges and opportunities it presents to actors. Schiff remarked on how the rise of streaming platforms has changed the way audiences consume content, with viewers now able to binge-watch entire seasons in one sitting. “It’s a different world now,” he said. “The expectation is for shows to deliver high-quality storytelling, but also to keep people engaged for long periods of time. It’s an exciting time for television, and actors have to be willing to adapt.”
Moynahan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the ability to connect with an audience in the digital age is more important than ever. “In this era of instant access to content, it’s crucial to create stories that resonate with people emotionally,” she explained. Both actors agreed that the rise of digital platforms has allowed for greater diversity in the types of shows being made, offering a broader range of characters and stories that might not have been possible in traditional television formats.
Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Aspirations
As the conversation drew to a close, both Schiff and Moynahan spoke about their future aspirations in the entertainment industry. Schiff mentioned his ongoing love for challenging roles, whether on stage or in front of the camera, and how he remains committed to discovering new characters that will push his limits. “I’m always looking for something that excites me, whether it’s a movie or a TV show,” he said.
Moynahan, who has been with Blue Bloods for over a decade, expressed her excitement for the future of the show, as well as her interest in exploring different genres. “There’s always room for growth, and I’m excited to see where Erin Reagan goes next,” she said. She also mentioned that she is open to pursuing other creative ventures, both within television and beyond, as she continues to evolve as an actress.
A Final Reflection on Their Careers
Both Richard Schiff and Bridget Moynahan offered valuable reflections on their careers during the interview, revealing the depth of their commitment to their craft and the evolution of television itself. For Schiff, his path to success has been shaped by a willingness to embrace complex characters, while Moynahan’s journey reflects her deep connection to her role and her understanding of the shifting television landscape. Together, they embody the resilience and passion that actors need to thrive in today’s ever-changing entertainment industry.
