CNN is now reporting that the official police call report indicates that they were responding to an “attempted suicide” at the home of Owen Wilson. As of right now, the only official statement released by Wilson or his representatives was a short message alongs the lines of “please respect our privacy as we go through this tough time” sort of statement… which is totally understandable.
As I’ve said before, and on the Uncut show last night, Owen Wilson is one of my favorite comedic actors. I just love seeing him in movies ever since his real big break out performance in Shanghai Noon with Jackie Chan. But this reminds us that no matter how rich or famous you get… we’re all still human, with weaknesses and brokenness. I don’t know what pushed Owen to try something like this, but this sure highlights we’re all pretty messed up.
Still, a question that I really have to ask at this point, in light of a horrible incident like this is…. will this have ANY effect on how you are able to view or perceive Wilson in his funny, slap stick comedic roles? Will you be able to just see each movie for what it is and divorce it from the harsh reality of tragedy surrounding Wilson… or will seeing him on screen trying to entertain us and make us laugh be overshadowed by some thought of “This guy tried to end his own life”?
I don’t think there is a right or wrong answer to that question. It’s hard, and I think the answer will be different for each of us. I know for myself, it’s going to be a little difficult for me to laugh with/at Wilson on screen knowing that this guy felt so hopless in his life that he tried to kill himself once. That’s not me judging him… I have no idea what it’s like to walk in his shoes… I’m just being honest that it will be hard to me to laugh with the man on screen while being so cognizant of the tragedy. I really hope I can get over that… I hope we all can. But for now the question remains:
Will this incident effect how you see Owen Wilson in comedy roles? Will it effect your ability to appreciate or enjoy them in any way? If so, or if not, why?