Meaning: The quote by Tony Shalhoub reflects his perspective on acting and the influence of his theatrical training on his approach to film and television roles. Shalhoub is known for his versatile performances across different mediums, and his statement sheds light on his commitment to drawing from his stage experience when transitioning to screen acting.

In the quote, Shalhoub identifies himself as a stage actor, emphasizing the enduring impact of his theatrical background on his artistic identity. This self-perception underscores the significance of his formative training and experiences in theater, which continue to inform and shape his approach to acting in other mediums. By framing himself as a stage actor, Shalhoub also highlights the depth of skill and technique cultivated in the theatrical realm, suggesting that these foundational elements remain integral to his approach in film and television.

Shalhoub's intention to implement what he was taught to do in theater when working in film and television underscores his belief in the transferability of acting principles across different platforms. This signifies a deliberate effort to carry over the discipline, techniques, and creative methodologies honed in the theater into his work in other visual storytelling formats. By doing so, Shalhoub seeks to maintain a sense of continuity in his artistic expression and to leverage the richness of his theatrical training to enrich his performances in diverse roles and genres.

Furthermore, Shalhoub's emphasis on stretching into characters that are far from himself reflects his dedication to the craft of acting and the willingness to inhabit roles that demand a departure from his own persona. This speaks to his commitment to transformation and his willingness to embrace the challenges of portraying characters with distinct personalities, backgrounds, and motivations. By drawing from his theatrical training, Shalhoub likely accesses a repertoire of techniques and methodologies that enable him to immerse himself in these diverse characters, transcending the boundaries of his own identity and experiences.

Overall, Shalhoub's quote encapsulates his enduring connection to his theatrical roots and his deliberate integration of theatrical principles into his work in film and television. It also conveys his commitment to the art of acting, his openness to embracing diverse roles, and his belief in the enduring relevance of theatrical training in shaping his approach to performance. As a result, Shalhoub's statement provides insight into the depth of his artistic ethos and the ways in which his stage actor identity continues to resonate in his work across various mediums.