The Blacklist star James Spader did not shy away from the real reason he prefers doing television over movies.
Actor James Spader gained critical acclaim for his performance in the crime-drama series The Blacklist. Spader played the role of fugitive turned FBI informant Raymond “Red” Reddington for all ten seasons of the series. His performance was a key factor behind the show’s success. As a result, fans might be surprised to learn his true motivation behind accepting the role.
During an interview, Spader talked about his lengthy career, which features some iconic shows and cult classic movies. However, the actor admitted to preferring roles in television shows as they offered one benefit that movies don’t. Here is what Spader had to say about why he accepted The Blacklist role.
James Spader admitted to accepting The Blacklist role for money
James Spader debuted as Raymond “Red” Reddington when The Blacklist premiered in 2013. The series ran for ten seasons, with Spader’s performance receiving critical acclaim. In the meantime, Spader only appeared in one movie, 2015’s Avengers: Age of Ultron.
During an interview with The Guardian, Spader spoke about his career graph, appearing in movies before becoming a household name thanks to his television show gigs. As a result, Spader revealed that he preferred television acting, but primarily because of the monetary benefits.
I have a history working on films for years and years, and by the time I was starting the next film I was starting from zero again. Television is the best earner. So the idea of knowing that the bills are going to be paid.
Spader made the above statement, revealing that having a steady paycheck was important for him, especially since he was irresponsible with money.
Furthermore, Spader’s comments imply that he only joined The Blacklist because he wanted a steady salary, which worked out for the best as the series lasted ten seasons. At the same time, his comments also explain why he has only appeared in one film in almost a decade.
James Spader also joined The Office because he desperately needed money
The Blacklist wasn’t the first television series that made Spader a household name. Instead, the actor first made a name for himself in network television with The Practice and its spin-off Boston Legal. The multiple Emmy Awards winner later appeared for a single season on The Office.
I knew I was going to need some money because I was hemorrhaging cash doing the play. And then all of a sudden, I got the call from ‘The Office.’
Spader made the above statement (via /Film), revealing that he had burned out most of the money from his Boston Legal days by the late 2010s.
Furthermore, Spader spent a whole year appearing in a David Mamet play and also renovated his home, leaving him in desperate need of money. As a result, Spader returned to television, where he likely scored a more than decent paycheck for his one-season stint on The Office. Thus, it is safe to say that Spader habitually prefers TV shows over movies because of the movie.
