Rerelease: Walton Goggins
Timestamps are as accurate as they can be but may be slightly off. We encourage you to listen to the full context.
Podcast Summary
In this episode of Armchair Expert, Dax Shepard sits down with Emmy-nominated actor Walton Goggins (White Lotus, Fallout, Righteous Gemstones, Hateful Eight) for an engaging conversation about his journey from a trailer in Alabama to becoming one of television's most versatile performers. (02:00) The conversation delves deep into Walton's challenging childhood marked by poverty, his mother's unconventional lifestyle, and the colorful cast of characters who shaped his worldview. (23:00) They explore his decision to turn down roles that perpetuated Southern stereotypes, his breakthrough moments including his pivotal work with Quentin Tarantino, and his philosophy of approaching both his career and personal life with artistic intention.
- Main themes include overcoming poverty and insecurity, the importance of authentic storytelling, and the value of living life with as much artistry and intention as one would approach a role
Speakers
Walton Goggins
Emmy-nominated actor known for his versatility across drama and comedy. He has starred in critically acclaimed series including The Shield, Justified, Vice Principals, Righteous Gemstones, Fallout, and The White Lotus. Goggins has also appeared in major films including The Hateful Eight, Django Unchained, and Tomb Raider, establishing himself as one of the most respected character actors of his generation.
Dax Shepard
Host of Armchair Expert podcast, actor, and comedian. Known for his roles in films like Without a Paddle and Hit and Run, as well as the TV series Parenthood and Bless This Mess.
Key Takeaways
Stand Up Against Cultural Stereotypes When You Can
Walton turned down the initial offer for Justified twice because he refused to perpetuate one-dimensional Southern stereotypes. (12:20) He explains that once you reach a point in your career where you can afford not to take certain roles, you have a moral obligation to step out of boxes that reduce entire cultures to simple impersonations. This decision ultimately led to a more complex, three-dimensional character when he negotiated for specific changes to the role. The lesson here is that when you have leverage, use it to create positive change rather than just personal gain. This applies beyond acting to any professional situation where you can influence how groups are represented or treated.
Transform Insecurity Into Self-Generated Structure
Growing up without consistent structure, Walton learned to create his own discipline and work ethic. (24:15) He describes never sleeping in the same bed for more than seven days straight until he was 15, which forced him to develop internal organization and motivation. Rather than letting chaos define him, he used it as fuel to work harder than everyone else in the room. This self-reliance became his superpower throughout his career. When life doesn't provide stability, you can choose to become your own source of consistency and drive.
Poverty Shapes You But Doesn't Define You
Walton candidly discusses the humiliation of poverty, including giving fake addresses to avoid embarrassment and never having enough money to fill up a gas tank. (37:45) He explains how these experiences created both insecurity and a chip on his shoulder that motivated him. While acknowledging that poverty never fully leaves you, he demonstrates how those experiences can be transformed into empathy, work ethic, and appreciation for opportunities. The key is processing the shame and using it as fuel rather than letting it consume you.
Approach Life With the Same Artistry as Your Work
Walton deliberately approaches his personal life with as much intention and creativity as he does his professional roles. (60:40) He describes turning down lucrative work to spend planned time with his family in Europe, prioritizing experiences and relationships over money. He treats his life as something to be lived "with intention" rather than just letting it happen. This philosophy extends to his choice of projects, his relationships, and how he spends his time. The lesson is to be as thoughtful about designing your life as you would be about any important creative project.
Seek Out Authentic Eccentricity and Character
Raised by what he calls "real steel magnolias" and various colorful characters, Walton learned to appreciate authentic eccentricity in people. (21:58) He describes loving "lunatics" and seeking out those conversations that can't be had in three minutes. In a world increasingly dominated by performative social media personas, he values genuine character and complexity in people. This appreciation for authentic human complexity has informed both his acting choices and personal relationships, leading him to seek depth over surface-level interactions.
Statistics & Facts
- Walton made $21,000 over three months for his role in The Next Karate Kid, which was significant money for him at the time. (43:51)
- The Shield ran for 86 episodes during Walton's seven-year commitment to the series. (44:29)
- Walton received American Express vouchers in 1989 offering round-trip tickets for $99 East of the Mississippi or $199 West of the Mississippi, which he used to travel to Los Angeles. (41:47)
