Meaning: Jill Clayburgh, an American actress known for her work in film, television, and theater, offered some insight into her approach to acting with the quote: "I don't theorize too much. I sort of let the experience sink in, and I have to discover what the character is by doing it, and having those thoughts that she's thinking." This quote provides a glimpse into Clayburgh's method of embodying a character, emphasizing the importance of immersing oneself in the experience and allowing the character's thoughts and emotions to emerge naturally.

Clayburgh's approach to acting reflects a style that is often referred to as "method acting," a technique that encourages performers to draw on their own emotions and experiences to develop authentic and believable characters. Rather than relying solely on intellectual analysis or theoretical frameworks, method acting prioritizes the exploration of the character's inner world through lived experience and emotional connection.

In her statement, Clayburgh emphasizes the significance of allowing the experience of portraying a character to "sink in." This suggests a process of deep immersion and absorption, where the actor becomes attuned to the nuances of the character's personality, motivations, and emotional landscape. By cultivating an openness to the character's inner life, Clayburgh suggests that she is able to access a more authentic and organic portrayal, rooted in genuine emotional responses rather than preconceived ideas or theories.

The phrase "I have to discover what the character is by doing it" underscores Clayburgh's belief in the active exploration of the character through performance. Rather than approaching the role as a fixed entity to be analyzed and dissected, she emphasizes the importance of engaging with the character through action and embodiment. This approach aligns with the principles of method acting, which often involve physical and emotional experimentation to access the character's truth.

Furthermore, Clayburgh's mention of "having those thoughts that she's thinking" speaks to her commitment to internalizing the character's perspective and psychology. By allowing herself to inhabit the character's mental and emotional space, she is able to tap into the rich tapestry of thoughts, feelings, and motivations that shape the character's identity. This immersive approach can lead to a more nuanced and deeply felt performance, as the actor becomes attuned to the character's inner world.

Clayburgh's quote also reflects a certain spontaneity and openness to discovery in her approach to acting. By eschewing excessive theorizing and intellectualization, she embraces a process of organic exploration and revelation, allowing the character to unfold through the act of portrayal. This emphasis on intuition and experiential discovery suggests a willingness to embrace the unknown and to trust in the unfolding of the character's essence through the actor's engagement with the role.

In conclusion, Jill Clayburgh's quote offers valuable insights into her approach to acting, highlighting the importance of experiential immersion, active exploration, and emotional connection in the development of a character. By prioritizing the lived experience of portraying a role and cultivating a deep understanding of the character's inner world, Clayburgh's approach embodies the principles of method acting and underscores the transformative power of authentic, emotionally connected performances on stage and screen.