Mandy Patinkin, a veteran actor with nearly 50 years in Hollywood, remains a dedicated “hired hand.” In a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times, Patinkin shared his journey and insights into his diverse career, touching on his latest role as Detective Rufus Cotesworth in the Hulu series “Death and Other Details.”
Who is Mandy Patinkin in Death and Other Details?
Patinkin, now 71, has left an indelible mark on Broadway with originating roles in “Evita” and “Sunday in the Park With George.” His performances in iconic films such as “Yentl” and “The Princess Bride” have solidified his status in the industry. Notably, he has seamlessly transitioned between acting and a successful music career.
Meet Detective Rufus Cotesworth
In his latest venture, “Death and Other Details,” premiering on Hulu, Patinkin takes on the role of Detective Rufus Cotesworth. He reunites with protégé Imogene (Violett Beane) on a cruise ship among the elite in this intriguing whodunit series.
According to Patinkin, the series offered a real mystery with numerous red herrings and intricate plotlines. He admitted, “There would be many occasions where I would get so f— lost and even I knew the answers, but I couldn’t remember them, that I felt like I was in the mystery for real”.
Embracing Opportunities During the Pandemic
Patinkin revealed that he was approached with the Hulu series during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when uncertainty loomed over the entertainment industry. Encouraged by the script’s ensemble nature and the chance to showcase his accent skills, he embraced the opportunity.
He sought the opinions of his family before committing to the project, demonstrating his trust in their judgment. His wife, Kathryn Grody, and son, Gideon Grody-Patinkin, along with Gideon’s writing partner Ewen Wright, gave their approval, marking the project as a comfortable return to work during a challenging time.
Social Media Stardom: A Family Affair
During the pandemic, Patinkin and Grody found a unique way to connect with audiences through social media. Their son, Gideon Grody-Patinkin, recorded entertaining videos of the couple, addressing questions about their long marriage, participating in pop culture trends, and even doing a “vote dance” to support Joe Biden in the 2020 election.
These videos evolved into what Patinkin humorously calls the “family show,” a series of live performances where he, Grody, and Grody-Patinkin engage with their audience. The unexpected success of their social media presence showcased a different side of Patinkin, beyond his acting roles.
Fashion Icon Emerges
Patinkin’s recent Instagram Reel, featuring him in a flamboyant outfit borrowed from his daughter-in-law’s brother, unexpectedly led to internet acclaim. He humorously proclaimed himself the “greatest fashion influencer that has ever lived.” This light-hearted approach to his own fashion choices reflects his down-to-earth personality.
Future Endeavors and Philosophies
While Patinkin’s main focus has become the family business, he expressed a keen interest in finding a new home for the scripted series “Seasoned,” based on his and Grody’s real-life marriage. Despite the challenges, he remains optimistic, emphasizing the show’s affordability.
In his outlook on life, Patinkin describes himself as a “Jew-Bu” or Jewish Buddhist. He embraces the unpredictable nature of life, acknowledging that some things are beyond our control. Regarding the fate of “Death and Other Details,” he maintains a calm perspective, stating, “If you need to know something, you’ll know.”
A Personal Note
Amid his diverse roles and projects, Patinkin humorously contemplates trying psilocybin mushrooms, a suggestion from his kids. While his wife Kathryn is intrigued, he remains uncertain and somewhat terrified. This candid reflection offers a glimpse into the actor’s genuine and relatable personality.
Mandy Patinkin’s enduring career and recent ventures showcase not only his versatility as an actor but also his down-to-earth approach to life. From the world of Broadway to Hollywood and now the digital realm, Patinkin continues to captivate audiences with his talent, humor, and genuine personality.