Without acting, I cannot breathe.

Acting is illusion, as much illusion as magic is - and not so much a matter of being real.

Striving for perfection is the greatest stopper there is. You'll be afraid you can't achieve it. It's your excuse to yourself for not doing anything. Instead, strive for excellence, doing your best.

Living is strife and torment, disappointment and love and sacrifice, golden sunsets and black storms. I said that some time ago, and today I do not think I would add one word.

Don't waste your time striving for perfection; instead, strive for excellence - doing your best.

Acting, is not a profession for adults.

[May 1958, on playing Macbeth at age 30 and age 48] When you're a young man, Macbeth is a character part. When you're older, it's a straight part.