From beginning his career in entertainment with the band Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch, to becoming an Oscar-nominated actor of repute, Mark Wahlberg’s journey has been inspirational. After his breakthrough role in Boogie Nights, Wahlberg went on to star in many commercial blockbusters as well as in critically acclaimed films.
The Shooter star’s acting chops came to the fore in Martin Scorsese’s gangster drama The Departed for which Wahlberg earned his first-ever Oscar nomination for Best Actor in A Supporting Role. Interestingly, the star confessed that he was initially against being part of the film and was skeptical to play the now-famous role of Sergeant Dignam.
Mark Wahlberg Was Not Keen On Doing The Departed
The Departed directed by prolific veteran director Martin Scorsese, was one of the biggest award-winning blockbusters of 2006. The gangster drama featured a glittering ensemble cast that included Jack Nicholson, Matt Damon, Mark Wahlberg, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Martin Sheen among others. This Oscar-winning film also earned Mark Wahlberg his first acting nomination for his memorable role as the tough truth-seeking Sergeant Dignam. While the Boogie Nights actor was lauded for his performance, he revealed that he was not keen to do the film initially despite Scorsese’s insistence, as the character did not impress him at first.
“I wanted a different part, and I wanted some other different things. They sent me on a plane over the weekend to Marty’s office. I told Marty I didn’t want to do it.”
But Martin Scorsese did not let Wahlberg go so easily. The director made the actor aware of his Boston connection which was also the city the film was based in. Scorsese also gave Wahlberg full freedom to improvise and create the nuances of the character which he felt, suited the star perfectly. Ultimately, the actor’s acceptance to be part of the film turned out to be the best decision all around.
Father Stu Was A Reflection Of Mark Wahlberg’s Life and Values
In 2022, Mark Wahlberg gave one of his most intense and powerful performances in Father Stu, the true story of a troubled agnostic boxer who became a priest and subsequently died of a degenerative muscle disorder. Wahlberg who also produced the film, said that it was a cathartic experience that hit close to home as it echoed many instances from his own life. The Departed star, like his protagonist, discovered his path to peace and redemption after living a difficult childhood that saw him drop out of school and get convicted of assault as a teenager. Speaking with gratitude about his current existence, Wahlberg said,
“I have always been trying to figure out. What am I supposed to do with all these wonderful blessings that have been bestowed upon me? How do I give back?”
The celebrity hoped that his journey towards finding himself by embracing religion would be an example for others to follow the same path and submit to the higher presence in their lives.
Source: YouTube
