Damian Lewis shares Rik Mayall's career-defining advice

In the UK, actor Damian Lewis reflected on his early career and the influence of the late comedian Rik Mayall, who provided him with valuable advice while he was still a drama school student. Lewis recalled his first acting role in one of Mayall's films, where he struggled with the technical aspects of acting on camera. Despite having only five lines, he learned a significant lesson about the editing process, as only one of his lines made it to the final cut. Mayall's guidance during this formative experience was instrumental, as he helped Lewis navigate the challenges of acting, including where to position himself in relation to the camera. Lewis expressed his admiration for Mayall, who passed away in 2014 from a heart attack, noting the shock of his sudden death given his relatively healthy lifestyle. The impact of Mayall's mentorship on Lewis's career is a testament to the importance of guidance in the arts, and Lewis's fond memories highlight the lasting legacy of Mayall's work and character in the entertainment industry.