Paul Rudd Says He Struggles With Depression Despite His Cheerful Image

Paul Rudd is opening up about the difference between his public image and his private life.

In a new interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the 57-year-old actor said he is not always the happy, carefree person many people think he is.

“I can get pretty depressed,” Rudd admitted. He said he experiences sadness, anxiety and sleepless nights like many others, but usually does not discuss those feelings in interviews.

Rudd shared that he connected with his character in the upcoming film Power Ballad, a musician whose career did not turn out as he had hoped. The actor said everyone has moments when they feel overwhelmed by life and worry about the future.

He also revealed that when he first studied acting, he wanted to become a serious dramatic actor like his idol Daniel Day-Lewis. However, an agent told him he was better suited to “all-American” roles rather than darker, edgier characters.

Over the years, Rudd became known for comedy hits such as Anchorman, Knocked Up and Wet Hot American Summer. Although comedy is sometimes viewed as less important than dramatic acting, Rudd said he has largely made peace with that perception.

Rudd stars alongside Nick Jonas in Power Ballad, which follows a wedding singer who tries to reclaim credit for a song that becomes a major hit.