Digest

Actor Titus Welliver shares his life experiences, from growing up surrounded by artists and musicians to working as a nightclub security guard in 1980s New York City. He reminisces about the vibrant and inclusive nightlife of that era, contrasting it with the more exclusive club culture of today. Welliver reflects on his acting career, highlighting the challenges and rewards, and offers advice to aspiring actors, emphasizing the importance of passion, resilience, and content creation. He also discusses his iconic role as Harry Bosch, praising the source material, collaborative team, and unique production style of the series. The conversation touches upon the influence of his artistic family, particularly his father, a painter, and his experiences navigating the entertainment industry. Welliver and Rob Lowe's discussion emphasizes the shift in television towards "sit-forward" viewing, demanding active engagement from the audience.

Outlines

00:01:16

Titus Welliver's Life and Career

Actor Titus Welliver discusses his unique upbringing, his experiences in 1980s NYC nightlife, and his perspective on the evolution of the entertainment industry, including anecdotes about working with iconic figures and the challenges and rewards of acting.

00:08:47

Artistic Upbringing and Father's Influence

Welliver details his childhood surrounded by artists and musicians, his father's influence on his artistic development, and how this shaped his resilience and ability to handle criticism.

00:02:49

1980s NYC Nightlife and its Decline

Welliver and Rob Lowe reminisce about 1980s NYC nightlife, comparing it to the current club scene and discussing the impact of bottle service and VIP areas on the decline of authentic club culture.

00:33:21

Challenges of Acting and Advice for Aspiring Actors

Welliver and Lowe discuss the challenges faced by actors, particularly their children pursuing acting careers, emphasizing the importance of passion, resilience, and content creation for aspiring actors.

00:41:52

Harry Bosch and the Success of the Series

Welliver reflects on his decade-long role as Harry Bosch, highlighting the quality of the source material, the collaborative spirit of the production team, and the unique aspects of the show's production and style.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are some of the key differences between the New York City nightlife scene of the 1980s and today's club culture?

  The 80s scene was more open and inclusive, with a diverse mix of people. Today, bottle service, VIP areas, and a focus on celebrity have created a more exclusive and less spontaneous atmosphere.

• What advice would Titus Welliver give to aspiring actors today?

  Only pursue acting if it's your only choice; develop your skills as a content creator (writer); be prepared for a long road of rejection and hard work; cultivate resilience and self-belief.

• How did Titus Welliver's upbringing influence his career?

  Growing up surrounded by artists and musicians instilled in him a strong work ethic, the ability to handle criticism, and a deep appreciation for creativity. His connections within the art world also broadened his network.

• What made the Harry Bosch series so successful?

  The high-quality source material from Michael Connelly's books, the strong collaborative spirit of the production team, and the unique cinematic style that emphasized stillness and atmosphere.

• What is "sit-forward television," and why is it important?

  "Sit-forward television" demands active engagement from the viewer, requiring focus and attention, unlike content designed for passive, background viewing. It represents a higher standard of quality and storytelling.

Show Notes