Jessie Buckley loves the ‘shadowy bits’ of her characters - Fresh Air Recap

Podcast: Fresh Air

Published: 2026-03-02

Duration: 45 min

Summary

Jessie Buckley discusses her deeply emotional role in the film 'Hamnet,' exploring the complexities of Shakespeare's wife, Agnes, and her connection to nature and grief. She reflects on how the character offers a more nuanced view of women in historical contexts.

What Happened

In this episode of Fresh Air, Terry Gross interviews Jessie Buckley, who is nominated for an Oscar for her performance in 'Hamnet.' The film, which explores the imagination behind William Shakespeare's wife, Agnes Hathaway, delves into the profound grief she experiences after the death of their son, Hamlet. Buckley portrays Agnes as a woman deeply connected to nature and her family, highlighting the emotional turmoil that comes from Shakespeare's absence during their son's illness. The narrative emphasizes the tension between Agnes's mystical qualities and societal expectations of women in that era.

Buckley reflects on the limited historical information about Agnes, noting that she was often portrayed negatively as a hindrance to Shakespeare's genius. However, the film's adaptation, based on Maggie O'Farrell's novel, reimagines Agnes as a vibrant character with her own strengths and struggles. Buckley describes her character's connection to the natural world, suggesting that Agnes embodies a wild, elemental spirit that contrasts with the emerging Puritan values of the time. This portrayal challenges the traditional narrative of women in Shakespeare's life, allowing Agnes to stand alongside her husband as a figure of depth and complexity.

The conversation also touches on the intense emotional scenes in the film, particularly when Agnes confronts the grief of losing her son. Buckley shares that the rawness of her performance was spontaneous, arising from the deep bond she formed with her co-stars, including Jacoby Jupe, who played Hamlet. She emphasizes that the depiction of such grief is unfathomable and unique to each individual, making her portrayal deeply rooted in imagination and respect for the pain of loss. Buckley’s insights into her character and the film's themes resonate strongly, showcasing her appreciation for the 'shadowy bits' of her roles.

Key Insights

• Buckley emphasizes the emotional depth of Agnes Hathaway, portraying her as a complex character rather than just a shadow of Shakespeare's genius.
• The film 'Hamnet' reimagines Agnes's character, presenting her as deeply connected to nature and offering a more nuanced view of historical women.
• Buckley discusses the spontaneous nature of her emotional performance, which stemmed from genuine connections with her co-stars.
• The conversation reflects on the unique and unfathomable nature of grief, highlighting the individuality of such experiences.

Key Questions Answered

What is the significance of Jessie Buckley's role in 'Hamnet'?

Jessie Buckley's role in 'Hamnet' as Agnes Hathaway is significant as it brings to life a largely imagined portrayal of Shakespeare’s wife. Buckley reflects on the historical context, noting that Agnes has often been seen negatively, as a figure who supposedly held back Shakespeare's genius. However, through the film, Buckley aims to give Agnes a vibrant identity that stands in contrast to historical portrayals, illuminating her as a strong, complex character.

How does 'Hamnet' depict the theme of grief?

'Hamnet' poignantly explores the theme of grief through the experiences of Agnes after the death of her son, Hamlet. Buckley describes a powerful scene where Agnes's grief is raw and visceral, stating, "There’s no way to define that kind of grief." This portrayal captures the depth of a mother's loss, emphasizing that the emotional turmoil is unfathomable and unique to each individual.

What does Jessie Buckley say about Agnes's connection to nature?

Jessie Buckley describes Agnes as being deeply connected to nature, which she believes is a defining trait of the character. She shares that Agnes is portrayed as somewhat mystical, possessing knowledge of herbs and herbal medicine. Buckley draws parallels to her own upbringing in Southern Ireland, where her connection to the natural landscape has influenced her understanding of the character's essence.

What was Buckley's approach to portraying grief in her performance?

Buckley explains that her approach to portraying grief was rooted in a deep bond with her co-stars, particularly with Jacoby Jupe, who plays Hamlet. She emphasizes the importance of being present during the filming of emotionally charged scenes, suggesting that the authenticity of the moment emerged from their established relationship as a family on set. This connection allowed her to tap into a more genuine expression of grief.

What upcoming projects does Jessie Buckley have after 'Hamnet'?

After 'Hamnet,' Jessie Buckley is set to star in 'The Bride,' a feminist retelling of the Bride of Frankenstein, which will open on March 6th. Buckley's career trajectory has included various notable films and television series, with her versatility as an actress being recognized through multiple awards, including a Golden Globe for her role in 'Hamnet.' This upcoming project signals her continued exploration of complex characters.