I understand that anything actors are doing, good or bad, is motivated by fear.

I feel like a member of any group comprised of outsiders.

I feel a kinship with anyone who feels that their road, their life or who they really are is not good enough. I really relate to that.

Opera was the cinema of its time, so to bring back that popular appeal, you just need to unleash its visceral immediacy and excitement. Most productions don't manage that - but when an opera does do it, you never forget it.

Don't waste your time on jealousy. Sometimes you're ahead, sometimes you're behind. The race is long, and in the end, it's only with yourself

In 1977, hip-hop literally wasn't outside the boroughs. But I was profoundly aware of the city through films like Saturday Night Fever, The French Connection, and Network. I had a friend who visited New York, and I asked him what it was like. He said, "Oh, it's great. Just wear a coat and don't look anyone in the eye."

In the '60s not everybody was wearing flowers in their hair and flowing caftans.