Meaning: The quote "I consider that my best performance ever was as Peer Gynt" by Leo McKern, a renowned actor, refers to a significant moment in his career where he identified a particular role as his finest work. Peer Gynt is a five-act play written by the Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen. The play is based on a Norwegian fairy tale and follows the life of the adventurous and mischievous Peer Gynt. Leo McKern's portrayal of this complex and multifaceted character evidently left a lasting impression on him, as he deemed it his best performance ever.

Leo McKern, born in 1920, was a prolific actor known for his work in film, television, and theater. His career spanned several decades, and he was celebrated for his versatility and ability to bring depth to the characters he portrayed. McKern's comment about his portrayal of Peer Gynt provides insight into his personal assessment of his work and sheds light on the significance of this particular role in his artistic journey.

Peer Gynt, the central character in Ibsen's play, is a challenging role for any actor. The character undergoes a series of adventures and misadventures, displaying a wide range of emotions and traits, from arrogance and selfishness to introspection and personal growth. McKern's identification of his performance as Peer Gynt as his best ever suggests that he found a deep connection to the character and was able to fully embody the complexity and depth of Peer Gynt's personality.

McKern's statement also invites us to consider the impact of this role on his career and artistic development. It indicates that the experience of portraying Peer Gynt was particularly meaningful to him, possibly influencing his approach to acting and shaping his understanding of the craft. It may have been a role that challenged him in new ways, allowing him to explore different facets of his talent and expand his range as an actor.

Moreover, McKern's assessment of his performance as Peer Gynt offers a glimpse into the subjective nature of acting and artistic expression. Each actor's relationship with their roles is deeply personal, influenced by their own experiences, emotions, and interpretations. What resonates as the pinnacle of one actor's career may not hold the same significance for another. McKern's acknowledgment of Peer Gynt as his best performance ever reflects the individualized nature of creative expression and the profound impact that certain roles can have on an actor's artistic journey.

In conclusion, Leo McKern's quote about his portrayal of Peer Gynt as his best performance ever provides a window into the depth of his connection to the character and the significance of this role in his career. It highlights the complexity of acting, the personal nature of artistic expression, and the enduring impact of certain roles on an actor's artistic journey. Leo McKern's assessment serves as a testament to the power of roles that resonate deeply with actors and the lasting impression they can leave on both the performer and their audience.