When it comes to the perfect blend of high-octane action and side-splitting comedy, few films can match the brilliance of Jackie Chan’s Rush Hour. This iconic buddy-cop movie captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with its explosive stunts and undeniable chemistry between Chan and his co-star Chris Tucker.
However, the 51-year-old had previously spoken about his experience because he wanted to do more than just make films, which are essentially meaningless for him.
Chris Tucker Desired More Than The Meaningless Wealth From Filmmaking
In the world of filmmaking, Chris Tucker‘s pursuit of success was never solely focused on accumulating wealth. His movie, 2016’s Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk directed by Ang Lee, followed a four-year gap since his role in David O. Russell’s Silver Linings Playbook.
These opportunities emerged after nine years primarily dedicated to the Rush Hour franchise, with the first film released in 1998, followed by sequels in 2001 and 2007.
Earlier in his career, the actor gained recognition for his roles in The Fifth Element, and Jackie Brown. Despite enjoying the fame and fortune that accompanied his movie stardom, Tucker realized he desired more from his roles. In an interview he candidly disclosed,
“I knew I didn’t want to just make a whole bunch of money making movies that don’t mean anything. I knew it wouldn’t make me happy.”
He longed for roles that held significance and depth. Frustrated by the lack of such opportunities, he decided to embrace a different approach. The artist stated,
“It got to a point that I wanted to only do special [roles] and those things weren’t coming to me—and I couldn’t find them. And I said, well, let me travel a little bit, live a little bit, instead of waiting on those things.”
Tucker sought trust and collaboration with his directors, longing for the freedom to unleash his creativity within the scripts. While he has explored other ventures, it is clear that he has not bid farewell to the world of films. He has previously expressed that he does not feel like he has left at all.
Chris Tucker Feels He Never Truly Left The Film Industry
Tucker’s connections to the film industry are still strong despite his absence from the big screen. The well-known comedian claimed he never really left, despite taking a step back.
He believes that he is frequently questioned about why he stopped working and that he is having difficulty expressing himself because he doesn’t feel as though he ever did.
Tucker shared in the interview with the media,
“It’s shocking because I guess I’m the last person to know it, Cause I’m always working. Stand-up comedy or something else, I’m working on. So when they say that, I’m like, oh, okay. I guess I haven’t been on the big screen in a while.”
The Friday actor also disclosed that he travels to hear a variety of keynote addresses on diverse topics. He explained,
“I’ve traveled the world 10 times over. I’ve had relationships all over the world. I did a lot of humanitarian work all over the world. So I’m always busy, always learning and growing.”
His words resonate strongly with a sense of unfinished business and a desire for new opportunities to show off his abilities.
Source: GQ Magazine
