Helen Mirren Still Gets ‘Terrified’ When She Starts a New Job: ‘You Never Know If You’re Going to Step Up’ (Exclusive)

Helen Mirren Admits to Feeling ‘Terrified’ When Starting a New Job

Renowned actress Helen Mirren, known for her exceptional performances, recently shared insights into her emotions when embarking on a new project. Despite her long and successful career, Mirren revealed that she still gets “absolutely terrified” every time she starts work on a new film or series. The esteemed actress, who stars in the Netflix movie ‘The Thursday Murder Club,’ opened up about her feelings in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE magazine.

In a candid conversation with PEOPLE, Helen Mirren expressed her feelings of fear and apprehension when starting a new project. The 80-year-old actress highlighted the uncertainty that comes with each new endeavour, from not knowing the people involved to questioning the chemistry on set. Mirren, who won an Oscar for her role as Queen Elizabeth II in ‘The Queen,’ emphasised that stepping into a new project is always nerve-wracking due to its unique challenges and demands.

Despite her fears, Helen Mirren acknowledged that she adopts a ‘fake it til you make it’ approach. She admitted that a significant part of navigating these situations involves projecting confidence, even when feeling insecure. Mirren emphasised that this pretence is a common tactic used by many, whether for social gatherings, job interviews, or other challenging scenarios that require one to muster courage and self-assurance.

Reflecting on her extensive career, Helen Mirren shared that it is the element of the unknown that motivates and excites her. The actress explained that the fear of the unfamiliar is what propels her forward and fuels her passion for acting. Recounting her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II, a role that was groundbreaking at the time, Mirren highlighted the special significance of stepping into uncharted territory and the profound impact it had on audiences.

In her latest project, ‘The Thursday Murder Club,’ Helen Mirren reunites with fellow acclaimed actors Pierce Brosnan, Celia Imrie, and Ben Kingsley. The film, streaming on Netflix, brought together a talented cast with whom Mirren shares a history of collaboration. From past performances on stage and screen to shared experiences within the entertainment industry, the reunion on set sparked a sense of camaraderie and appreciation for their enduring careers.

Helen Mirren expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside familiar faces in ‘The Thursday Murder Club,’ emphasising the collective recognition of their longstanding contributions to the industry. The actress highlighted the joy and amazement of coming together with fellow actors who have each carved out diverse and successful careers in Hollywood. The shared experience of working on the film evoked a sense of nostalgia and camaraderie among the cast members.

As audiences anticipate the release of ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ on Netflix, Helen Mirren’s candid revelations about her fears and motivations offer a glimpse into the inner workings of a seasoned actress. With a career spanning decades and diverse roles that have left a lasting impact on viewers, Mirren’s vulnerability and resilience in facing new challenges serve as a testament to her enduring talent and passion for storytelling.