Collaboratively crafted by Hollywood A-listers Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, the war drama miniseries Band of Brothers shares the story of Easy Company, 506th Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division, from 1942 to the end of World War II.
Based on Stephen E. Ambrose’s 1992 book of the same name, the series featured an ensemble cast, embodying real war heroes. Damian Lewis took on the role of Richard “Dick” Winters, a paratrooper who served with Easy Company, in the series.
The actor’s casting in the series proved to be a stroke of genius, with the actor later reflecting on his detachment from the character, which allowed him a more nuanced and authentic portrayal.
Damian Lewis Reflected on Portraying Dick Winters in Band of Brothers
The Emmy-winning actor Damian Lewis once reflected on portraying the role of Richard Winters in the acclaimed miniseries Band of Brothers. Sharing insight into his journey to portray the character, he initially found himself detached from the hype surrounding his character.
In his interview for Larry Alexander’s book, Biggest Brother: The Life of Major Dick Winters, The Man Who Led the Band of Brothers, the actor shared that he researched Winters’ personal diaries, letters, and memories for his role in the series.
And he gradually began to grasp the essence of the man behind the uniform. “He was a man whose recollections were analytical, pragmatically ordered, not emotional,” he said while sharing that Winters was a leader who eschewed grandiose tales of wartime heroism.
Lewis found it similar to his initial detachment from the hype surrounding his role in the series, which ultimately helped him understand and portray the character more authentically. He shared, “It dawned on me what a happy coincidence it was.”
He further shared, “I had felt slightly removed from the ‘hype’ at the beginning of the job, a little detached.” Not only this but once the Homeland actor gained Winters’ trust, he was able to discover additional dimensions to his personality, warmth, a dry sense of humor, and a genuine willingness to listen.
Damian Lewis on Honoring Richard Winters’ Legacy in Band of Brothers
In another interview with The Guardian, Damian Lewis further reflected on staying true to Richard Winters’ character and principles. He shared that he had “exhaustive” conversations with the producers regarding keeping his portrayal as authentic as possible.
“I had exhaustive conversations with the producers about the fact that Richard Winters is still alive,” he said before adding, “We were adamant that we had to be as true to him as possible, true to the essence of the man.” He also clarified that it did not involve him mimicking Winters.
He said,
He’s Pennsylvania Dutch Mennonite… He would sound Canadian to us. He had a very puritanical upbringing, no drinking, no swearing. Incredible moral rectitude and a sense of what’s right and wrong. And, of course, he has a natural economy with words and emotions.
Lewis’s portrayal of Winters in the miniseries resonated deeply with the audience and critics alike. The actor’s commitment to understanding and honoring Winters’ background and principles, reflected his broader effort, and his casting in the series Spielberg’s foresight in selecting the ideal choice for the role.
Band of Brothers is available to stream on Max.
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