Tag Archives: actor

The Secret to Orson Welles’ Creative Output? He was an Insomniac.

Playwright, Actor, Director, Producer and Insomniac Orson Welles
Playwright, Actor, Director, Producer and Insomniac Orson Welles

George Orson Welles would’ve been 100 years old this week and many authors and critics are writing about the breadth and depth of his creative output.

How can a man write, direct and produce for theater, radio, and film in seemingly the same space of time? Answer: He didn’t sleep. 

Here at TLS, we are not advocating insomnia or being a workaholic, but we do respect Mr. Welles’ relentless drive and intense focus. The takeaway: whatever you are currently working on—be it for five minutes or two hours—give it your undivided attention.

(Ed. Note: Citizen Kane, The Magnificent Ambersons, and The Third Man are amongst my all-time favorite films, check out The New York Times’ list of other great Orson Welles films.)