Acclaimed actor Walton Goggins opens up about the person who inspires him most – his wife.
The White Lotus’s Walton Goggins: ‘Who do I most admire? My wife, because of what we have overcome together’
I was born in Alabama and moved to Los Angeles where I started a car valeting business and took acting lessons. Over the years, my films have included Lincoln, Django Unchained, The Hateful Eight, and Tomb Raider. I currently star in the Amazon series Fallout as the dual role of the Ghoul and Cooper Howard and played the character Shane Robinson in the third series of Sky Atlantic’s White Lotus. My new film, The Uninvited, is now in cinemas. In my personal life, I am married for the second time, have a son, and reside in upstate New York.
Walton Goggins is a versatile American actor, born on November 10, 1971, in Birmingham, Alabama.
He gained recognition for his roles in TV series 'Vice Principals' and 'Justified.' Goggins has also appeared in films like 'Django Unchained, ' The Hateful Eight, ' and 'Lincoln.' He is known for his distinctive voice and nuanced performances.
Throughout his career, Goggins has received numerous award nominations, including an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.
A Fearsome Snakes and a Love of Beauty
My greatest fear is snakes. I must admit that this phobia has always been quite unsettling for me. On the other hand, when I was just four years old, watching my mother get dressed for work left an indelible mark on my life. She was a single mom, and at that moment, she seemed like the most beautiful woman in the world to me.
A Life of Love and Admiration
When it comes to living people who I admire, there is one individual who stands out above the rest – my wife. The lessons we’ve learned and the challenges we have overcome together have taught me so much about love, resilience, and the importance of relationships. This is why my wife is the person I most admire.
A Habit That Drives Me Mad
One trait that I despise in myself is insecurity around money. It’s a profound feeling of uncertainty about whether I can provide for my family. This insecurity has been a constant companion throughout my life, and it often leaves me feeling anxious and uneasy.
The Price of Fame
I recall an embarrassing moment when I was filming a large movie and passed wind on camera during a close-up shot. It was a moment that I wish I could have avoided, but one that also taught me to be more mindful of my body language in public.
A Treasured Possession
Among my most treasured possessions is a collection of sand and dirt stored in little vessels that represent the road I’ve been walking on. This symbol serves as a reminder of my journey through life, with all its ups and downs.
Charisma – My Superpower
If I had to choose a superpower, it would be charisma. This quality has always allowed me to connect with people, make them laugh, and bring out the best in those around me.
Charisma is a complex mix of personality traits, including confidence, empathy, and communication skills.
People with charisma can inspire and influence others, making them effective leaders and communicators.
Research suggests that charismatic individuals tend to have higher levels of testosterone and oxytocin, hormones associated with social bonding and dominance.
Studies also show that charisma can be developed through practice and self-awareness, allowing anyone to improve their interpersonal skills and build stronger relationships.
The Dark Side of Happiness
What makes me unhappy are bad wine and traffic. These two things have the power to ruin an otherwise wonderful day for me.
A Smile That’s Left Me Feeling Unhappy
I must confess that I don’t like my smile very much. When I was in fifth grade, I lost two front teeth, which left a lasting impression on me. The thought of what life would have been like with my original smile still haunts me at times.
A Cleaning Obsession
One habit that I find quite annoying is my OCD when it comes to cleaning. This fixation often leaves me feeling anxious and restless unless I’m surrounded by order and symmetry.
A Crush on Timothée Chalamet
If I had to choose a celebrity crush, it would be Timothée Chalamet. There’s something about his talent, charisma, and vulnerability that draws me in and makes me want to get to know him better.
The Choice Between Fame and Anonymity
When it comes to fame versus anonymity, I must admit that the allure of fame is hard to resist. But if I had to make a choice between the two, I would choose fame only if I could get a reservation at a restaurant that I want to go to.
A Guilty Pleasure
One thing that brings me joy and satisfaction is a cocktail and a swim in the Mediterranean. There’s something about the combination of relaxation and indulgence that makes me feel truly alive.
The Greatest Love of My Life
My son, Augustus, holds a special place in my heart as the greatest love of my life. Being his father has been an incredible experience, and I would do anything to ensure his happiness and well-being.
What Love Means to Me
Love is ‘obsessive, glorious, everything that we’re put on this Earth to feel all at once’ . It’s a feeling that can bring us immense joy but also great pain if not handled properly.
The Best Kiss of My Life
The best kiss I’ve ever experienced was the first time I kissed my wife. It was a moment that left me breathless and wanting more.
A Promise I Will Keep
I promise to say ‘I love you’ to everyone because I genuinely mean it. Love is something that should be expressed freely, without hesitation or condition.
The Biggest Disappointment of My Life
The biggest disappointment in my life has been being absent from my son’s life when I’m at work. As a father, there’s no greater feeling than knowing that your child feels loved and supported, even when you’re not physically present.
A Moment of Vulnerability
I remember crying last night while preparing for a scene. It was a moment of vulnerability that taught me the importance of being honest with myself and others about my emotions.
Coming Close to Death
The closest I’ve come to death was during a significant traumatic experience when I was looking for reasons to stay alive. This experience left an indelible mark on my life, but it also taught me the value of resilience and perseverance.
Death is a natural process that occurs when an organism's biological functions cease to operate.
It is a universal experience that affects every living being, regardless of age, background, or circumstances.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 57 million people die each year worldwide.
Death can be caused by various factors, including old age, disease, injury, or sudden events.
Understanding 'death helps individuals appreciate life's value and significance, leading to a more meaningful existence.'
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
As I look back on my life, I hope to be remembered as one of a kind – someone who has lived authentically, pursued their passions, and made a positive impact on those around them.
