Popcorn With Peter Travers Season 11 Episode 26 'Chappaquiddick' Star Jason Clarke on His New Role as Sen. Ted Kennedy

In the season 11 episode 26 of Popcorn with Peter Travers, Australian actor Jason Clarke talks about his latest role as the late US Senator Ted Kennedy in the movie 'Chappaquiddick'. The conversation centers around the difficulties of playing such a notorious person and having to embody his character in a fair and accurate manner.

Travers and Clarke start off by discussing Kennedy's legacy, including his family's political influence and his own attempt at becoming the US president. They then delve into the events surrounding the Chappaquiddick incident in 1969, where Kennedy was involved in a car accident that resulted in the death of his passenger, Mary Jo Kopechne. Clarke shares how he prepared for the role by researching Kennedy's life, speeches and mannerisms, as well as visiting the site of the car accident.

The conversation also touches upon the movie's portrayal of Kennedy, which according to Clarke refrains from demonizing him or taking any sides. Instead, the movie focuses on the events leading up to and following the accident, and the impact it had on Kennedy's reputation and political career. Clarke also talks about working with the director, John Curran, and the importance of having a good director-actor relationship to achieve a successful performance.

Throughout the episode, Travers and Clarke engage in a thoughtful and insightful discussion about Ted Kennedy's life and legacy, as well as the ethics of portraying real-life events and characters in movies. The interview manages to balance a critical approach to the movie and its subject matter, while also respecting the nuances and complexities of the historical events.

Overall, the episode provides a fascinating insight into Jason Clarke's preparation for his role as Ted Kennedy, as well as the challenges and responsibilities of playing a controversial figure in modern American politics. It also offers a poignant reflection on the legacy of the Kennedy family, and their impact on US history and culture.