Riley Keough Explains Why She Keeps Personal Grief Separate from Acting Roles
Riley Keough, known for her role in the Hulu limited series Under the Bridge, shared insights into her approach to acting and personal grief during a recent event in Los Angeles. Keough, who plays the late author Rebecca Godfrey in the series, revealed that she consciously avoids incorporating her own experiences with loss into her performances on screen.
During a conversation with Jena Malone, Keough discussed the importance of maintaining boundaries between her characters’ emotions and her private life. Despite facing personal tragedies, including the loss of her brother Benjamin and mother Lisa Marie Presley, Keough emphasized the need to protect herself from potentially harmful effects on her mental health.
While acknowledging that some actors draw from personal experiences to enhance their performances, Keough expressed her belief that it would be “very unhealthy” for her to do so. She highlighted the challenges of portraying deep emotions onscreen, especially when scenes require multiple takes.
Keough’s approach to acting focuses on immersing herself in the “headspace of the character,” allowing her to separate her personal grief from her professional work. She noted that her character in Under the Bridge, Rebecca Godfrey, experiences grief differently, requiring a distinct emotional portrayal that does not directly mirror her own experiences.
As Keough continues to navigate the complexities of her acting career, she remains committed to maintaining a healthy balance between her personal life and onscreen performances. The Hulu series, which delves into the tragic events surrounding the murder of Reena Virk, showcases Keough’s dedication to her craft while honoring the memory of the late author she portrays.
For those struggling with thoughts of suicide, resources such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and Crisis Text Line are available for support and assistance. Keough’s candid reflections serve as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being in the face of personal challenges.