It's always pretty dark. It's not a farce, this is Homeland. Throughout six seasons, we've been trying to understand what it's like to be a civil servant, and the cost involved, and it's big. A lot of these people make profound sacrifices, and are very isolated and estranged from the people they love. That's a reality.

I think because I am as earnest as I am, people were accepting of my evolving into a certified, legitimate, and grown up and I did take three years off.

At every stage in life you think about death. But teenagers especially are sort of invincible. They're not supposed to be thinking about dying yet, or else they'd be too afraid to live.

I'm human. I think people see me as sweeter and softer than I do.

I finally realized that yeah I did want to be an actor and it wasn't out of habit, but I needed to grow up for myself and then kind of re-enter the industry with a sound understanding of what my sensibilities and my values are as a relatively formed human being.

There is real honor in being a total goofball

You are the most brave intrepid person I have ever known, and you have dedicated your life to helping those who are misunderstood and underrepresented.