Hollywood, CA - Rising star Murray Bartlett's path to the bright lights wasn't paved with red carpets. In a candid interview, Bartlett unveils a captivating story of transformation, parental support, and a fateful VHS tape that ignited a lifelong passion.
At 15, a seemingly ordinary afternoon took a life-altering turn. Drawn by a favorite book's adaptation, Bartlett rented the film "Goodfellas." Nine minutes into the electrifying performance of Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, and Joe Pesci, a revelation struck. Witnessing the raw authenticity with which they brought the mafia world to life, a dormant desire awakened. The thrill of storytelling, the power of embodied characters - it all coalesced into a singular ambition: to become an actor.
Bartlett's background is a tapestry woven with diverse threads. Born in Greenfield, Massachusetts, his family soon relocated to a quaint Vermont town. Their unconventional 1980s Cape Cod house, accidentally painted a muted pink, mirrored the vibrant spirit that resided within the young Bartlett. His father, David, an archaeologist with the National Forest Service, meticulously unearthed the secrets of the past. His mother, Barbara, a former home-economics teacher, nurtured young minds, later transitioning to an elementary school's administrative heart.
Despite a supportive upbringing, Bartlett's teenage years were a whirlwind of experimentation. He dabbled in alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs, yet his creative spark refused to be extinguished. He channeled his energy into school plays, hockey games, and baseball diamonds, finding solace in the camaraderie and self-expression these activities offered.
Recognizing his potential, Bartlett's parents offered a unique opportunity. Utilizing funds from his grandparents, they presented the option of attending a vocational school with a renowned theater program. Embracing this chance, Bartlett enrolled at the Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center, embarking on a rigorous schedule that combined academics with afternoon artistic exploration.
A seed of talent, nurtured by a perceptive elementary school teacher named Jan Ryan, blossomed under the guidance of Candace Burkle and Steve Small at the arts school. These dedicated instructors instilled focus and discipline, empowering Bartlett to hone his craft. Their unwavering belief propelled him to apply, audition, and ultimately gain acceptance into the prestigious University of North Carolina School of the Arts.
Graduation in 2008 ignited a yearning for the bright lights of Los Angeles. However, the university's dean, Gerald Freedman, offered sage advice. He suggested cutting his teeth in New York first, a stepping stone to the West Coast. Heeding this wisdom, Bartlett settled in Brooklyn, ready to conquer the Big Apple.
After a year of navigating the bustling New York scene, Bartlett felt the pull of Los Angeles once more. But just before packing his bags, a documentary about playwright Horton Foote shifted his perspective. Foote's advice to a young New York actor resonated deeply: "Go back to New York and stick it out." With newfound resolve, Bartlett recommitted to the city that had become his artistic incubator.
This unwavering dedication paid off. A pivotal role in the final season of "The Office" in 2012 marked a turning point in his career. Yet, the breakout success of "White Lotus" in 2021 shattered expectations. It showcased his versatility, offering him roles beyond the stereotypical "nice boyfriend."
Today, Bartlett finds his center not just in the Hollywood spotlight, but also in the warmth of his family. He and his wife, Lauren, have built a life in Connecticut with their two young sons. The idyllic setting, a temporary haven as they search for their permanent dream home, reflects the perfect harmony he has achieved between professional success and personal fulfillment.
Reflecting on his journey, Bartlett acknowledges the unwavering support of his parents. He admits with a touch of humility, "They are owed a lot of credit given what I put them through." But through it all, their unwavering love and belief became the foundation upon which his extraordinary career was built.
