Olivia Wilde's Admiration for Hugh Laurie on 'House'
In a recent interview, actress and director Olivia Wilde expressed profound respect and admiration for her former co-star, Hugh Laurie, from the medical drama series 'House'. Wilde lauded Laurie's intelligence, gracious demeanor, and his encouraging presence on set, particularly towards younger cast members. She shared insights into their demanding work schedule and how the show's global popularity surprised her.
Wilde joined 'House' in its fourth season in 2007, portraying Dr. Remy "Thirteen" Hadley. Her character was part of Dr. House's new diagnostic team, which also featured actors like Kal Penn and Peter Jacobson. Dax Shepard, host of the 'Armchair Expert' podcast where Wilde shared these reflections, confessed his personal admiration for Laurie's portrayal of the titular character, a sentiment echoed by Wilde.
She fondly recalled Laurie's extensive background in English comedy and how his wit extended to off-screen moments. One particular anecdote highlighted Laurie's humor: when asked about acting with an American accent, he quipped, "It's like everyone else is playing with a tennis racket and I have a salmon." Wilde praised this analogy as perfectly capturing the challenge, further emphasizing her respect for his talent.
Wilde also discussed her eventual departure from 'House' in 2011 to explore film opportunities. Despite the demanding 19-hour workdays, she noted the show's supportive stance on her career aspirations. She had an arrangement that allowed her to pursue movies during the off-season, acknowledging the personal toll the rigorous schedule took, especially on Laurie who carried the bulk of the series.
The bond formed between Wilde and Laurie during their years working together on 'House' extended beyond the set. Wilde described their relationship as a true friendship, emphasizing Laurie's cool and supportive nature, which left a lasting impression on her career and personal development. She credits him as a significant mentor from whom she learned a great deal.
