Meaning: The quote, "It's fun to play the character and then watch him later," by Michael Shanks, encapsulates the unique experience of an actor who has the opportunity to portray a character and then observe their performance in the final production. This statement reflects the multifaceted nature of acting, where an individual can immerse themselves in a role during the creative process and then gain a new perspective by witnessing the character's portrayal in the finished product.

For an actor, the process of embodying a character is often a deeply immersive and rewarding experience. When they step into the shoes of a fictional persona, they have the opportunity to explore different facets of human nature, emotions, and behaviors. This process may involve extensive research, introspection, and collaboration with directors and fellow actors to bring the character to life. As they delve into the complexities of the role, they may find themselves experiencing a range of emotions and challenges, which can be both exhilarating and demanding.

The act of portraying a character on stage or screen is a dynamic and transformative undertaking. It requires the actor to harness their creativity, empathy, and technical skills to convincingly convey the character's essence to the audience. Through the use of body language, vocal intonation, and emotional expression, the actor strives to make the character authentic and relatable, drawing the audience into their world.

After the intense process of embodying a character, actors often experience a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. The opportunity to bring a character to life on stage or screen allows them to express their artistry and connect with audiences on a profound level. The act of playing a character can be a form of self-discovery for the actor, as they may uncover new aspects of their own personality and capabilities through the roles they inhabit.

Once the production is completed and released, actors have the opportunity to view their performances from an external perspective. Watching the character they portrayed come to life on screen or stage can be a surreal and enlightening experience. It allows them to see their work in the context of the larger production, alongside the contributions of their fellow cast members, directors, and crew. This reflective process can provide valuable insights for the actor, allowing them to evaluate their performance and gain a deeper understanding of the character they portrayed.

Moreover, observing the character they played from an audience's standpoint can offer actors a unique perspective on their craft. They may notice nuances in their performance, discover new layers to the character's portrayal, and appreciate the impact of their work on the overall production. This reflective process can be a source of growth and learning for actors, as it enables them to refine their skills and approach to future roles.

In conclusion, Michael Shanks' quote, "It's fun to play the character and then watch him later," encapsulates the multifaceted nature of the acting experience. From the immersive process of embodying a character to the reflective act of observing their performance, actors navigate a rich and transformative journey. Through the exploration of diverse roles and the opportunity to view their work from an external perspective, actors continue to evolve and expand their artistic horizons.