Dennis Quaid Says Eating 5 Lbs. of Shrimp in “The Substance” Was Like ‘Going to Capt. Benny’s’

Dennis Quaid Dives into Eating 5 Lbs. of Shrimp for ‘The Substance’

Veteran actor Dennis Quaid recently shared insights into a memorable scene from the award-winning film ‘The Substance’, where he devoured a staggering amount of shrimp on screen. The movie, a psychological thriller co-starring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, made waves in 2024 with its gripping storyline and standout performances. Quaid, known for his versatility in various film genres, sat down for an interview on the Today show to discuss the unique experience of consuming several pounds of shrimp for a particular scene in the movie.

Quaid humorously recounted the surreal moment of enjoying his seafood feast, revealing that he may have eaten anywhere between three to five pounds of shrimp during filming. Despite the unusual nature of the scene, Quaid expressed his enjoyment of the process and praised the director for creating a fun and engaging atmosphere on set. The actor joked about the quantity of shrimp consumed, quipping that it felt like dining at a beloved Texas seafood spot, Captain Benny’s.

The lunch scene in ‘The Substance’ features Quaid’s character engaging in a tense exchange with Moore’s character, providing a chilling backdrop to their on-screen dynamic. Moore herself highlighted the intensity of the shrimp-eating scene, describing it as one of the most violent moments in the entire film. The visceral nature of Quaid’s performance, as he meticulously devours shrimp while maintaining a menacing presence, left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike.

Beyond his role in ‘The Substance’, Quaid has been exploring a range of diverse characters in recent projects, showcasing his versatility as an actor. His portrayal of President Ronald Reagan in the biopic ‘Reagan’ and his chilling depiction of a serial killer in the Paramount+ series ‘Happy Face’ have earned him critical acclaim and renewed attention in the industry. With upcoming releases like ‘Sovereign’ and ‘Broke’, Quaid continues to captivate audiences with his compelling performances across different genres.

As Quaid reflected on his late career resurgence during the interview, he shared anecdotes about his current projects and the joy of collaborating with talented individuals in the film industry. His dedication to his craft and willingness to embrace challenging roles have solidified his reputation as a versatile and dedicated actor. Fans can look forward to witnessing Quaid’s upcoming projects on the big screen, including the highly anticipated release of ‘Broke’ on May 6.

In conclusion, Dennis Quaid’s candid revelation about consuming copious amounts of shrimp for his role in ‘The Substance’ offers a glimpse into the creative process and commitment required in the world of cinema. His ability to immerse himself in diverse roles and deliver captivating performances underscores his enduring appeal as a seasoned actor. As audiences eagerly anticipate Quaid’s future endeavours, his enduring passion for storytelling continues to shine through in each new project he undertakes.