Off Camera with Sam Jones Season 9 Episode 30 Chris Messina

Chris Messina has been a key player in the film and television industry for over two decades, with notable roles in projects like "The Mindy Project," "Sharp Objects," and "Argo." But his journey to success was not without challenges. In this episode of Off Camera with Sam Jones, Messina opens up about his struggles with addiction, anxiety, and self-doubt, and how he used those experiences to fuel his craft.

The episode starts with Messina discussing his early years in New York City, where he became drawn to theater and eventually landed a role on Broadway. But even as his career was taking off, he found himself struggling with addiction and grappling with feelings of inadequacy. "I didn't believe in myself, and I didn't have any confidence," he admits. "I had to hit a pretty low bottom to really wake up."

Messina traces his path to sobriety and talks about the importance of therapy and the support of loved ones in his recovery. He also shares how he learned to channel his emotions into his work, noting that "all the things that make us human are messy and complicated and hard to deal with, but they're also the things that make us really interesting as actors."

Throughout the episode, Messina reflects on the various roles and projects that have defined his career, from playing a tight-laced lawyer on "The Newsroom" to starring opposite Amy Adams in "Sharp Objects." He also shares some of the lessons he's learned along the way, including the importance of taking risks and staying true to oneself.

As always, host Sam Jones guides the conversation with his signature blend of curiosity and insight, delving into Messina's creative process and personal philosophy. The two discuss everything from the challenges of playing complex characters to the joys of being a parent. Through it all, Messina's warmth and authenticity shine through, making this episode a must-watch for fans of the actor and anyone interested in the art of storytelling.