Meaning: This quote by Michael Shanks, a Canadian actor known for his role as Dr. Daniel Jackson in the television series "Stargate SG-1," reflects the process of developing a character over time. Shanks' words convey the satisfaction of gradually refining and personalizing a character, eventually making it his own. In the world of acting, this process can involve a collaborative effort between the actor, the writers, directors, and other members of the production team. It also speaks to the creative freedom and artistic fulfillment that actors experience as they infuse their own unique qualities into the characters they portray.

When an actor takes on a role, they often begin with a character that has been conceptualized and written by someone else. This initial portrayal may be based on the script, the director's vision, or the source material if the character is from a book, play, or other existing work. As the actor inhabits the role, they have the opportunity to delve deeper into the character's psyche, motivations, and personal nuances. This exploration allows the actor to gradually shape the character in a way that aligns with their own interpretation and artistic sensibilities.

In the quote, Shanks alludes to the long-term benefit of being able to "pare away" certain aspects of the character. This process involves identifying elements that may not fully resonate with the actor's understanding of the character or that may not align with the unfolding narrative of the story. By paring away these elements, the actor can refine the character's traits, actions, and reactions to create a more cohesive and authentic portrayal.

Furthermore, Shanks expresses the joy of eventually making the character his own and putting his own unique stamp on it. This sentiment encapsulates the transformative journey that actors undergo as they infuse their own personality, emotions, and experiences into the character. Through this personalization, the character becomes a canvas for the actor's creativity, allowing them to imbue it with distinct nuances and mannerisms that reflect their individuality.

Shanks' experience with shaping a character to make it his own is a testament to the dynamic nature of acting. It underscores the collaborative and iterative process through which characters evolve from initial conception to fully realized, multi-dimensional entities. This evolution is not only influenced by the actor's interpretation but also by the interactions with fellow cast members, directors, and the overall production environment.

In conclusion, Michael Shanks' quote encapsulates the transformative journey that actors undertake as they shape and personalize the characters they portray. It reflects the creative freedom and fulfillment that comes from infusing a character with one's own unique qualities and perspectives. This process of making a character one's own is a testament to the dynamic and collaborative nature of acting, where characters evolve and grow through the creative input of the entire production team.