John Corbett Regrets Decision to Become an Actor: 'I Picked the F---ing Wrong Thing to Do With My Life'

Actor John Corbett, known for his roles in "Sex and the City" and "Northern Exposure," has expressed regret over his decision to pursue acting, stating that he feels creatively stifled and unfulfilled in the profession.

John Corbett, who gained recognition for his performances in "Sex and the City," "Northern Exposure," and "The United States of Tara," has opened up about his frustrations and unfulfillment as an actor on the "Fly on the Wall" podcast hosted by David Spade and Dana Carvey.

Corbett, now 63 years old, candidly admitted that he regrets choosing acting as his profession, describing it as the "f---ing wrong thing to do with my life." He explained that his aversion to authority figures influenced his decision to become an actor, seeking fulfillment in a field where he could exercise his creativity and autonomy. However, his experiences in the industry have left him feeling dissatisfied and uninspired.

John Corbett Regrets Decision to Become an Actor: 'I Picked the F---ing Wrong Thing to Do With My Life'

"As an actor, in my position, which is always second, third banana in something… I'm not collaborating with the writers," he said, emphasizing his lack of creative control and feeling like a mere puppet on set. "You feel like a puppet. Have you ever sat in a f---ing waiting room of a doctor's office for like an hour and you're going, ‘What the f---?’ For me, that's what making a movie is like, because I'm not part of any creative process."

Corbett acknowledged his perceived ingratitude, recognizing the financial rewards and recognition he has received as an actor. However, he stressed that his lack of creative input has left him unfulfilled and yearning for more meaningful and fulfilling work.

John Corbett Regrets Decision to Become an Actor: 'I Picked the F---ing Wrong Thing to Do With My Life'

"I'm just telling you, I made a lot of money. I live in a beautiful home. People come to me in every f---ing restaurant I go in. I'm a friend of the world," he said. "But as far as a fulfilling creative work life, I didn't write one f---ing line. I didn't write one joke to make people laugh. So it's been unfulfilling on that level."

He continued, "You know, there were some good times here and there, but most of it's sitting, waiting for them to f---ing knock on your door to go, ‘Hey, we need you to come back and say that thing again.’ And to me, man, it's such a boring f---ing life."

John Corbett Regrets Decision to Become an Actor: 'I Picked the F---ing Wrong Thing to Do With My Life'

Corbett described the experience of being on a movie set as akin to "watching paint dry," a monotonous and tedious process that has drained his passion for the craft. "Anybody listening that's never been on a movie set, if you ever came to visit one of us for two days, just two of those 14-hour days, you'd say, ‘I never want to be here ever again.’ [It’s] like watching paint dry," he remarked.

Despite his disillusionment with acting, Corbett found solace in his relationship with actress Bo Derek, whom he married in 2020 after 18 years of being together. He expressed contentment with his life outside of the entertainment industry, enjoying the companionship of his partner and their dogs.

John Corbett Regrets Decision to Become an Actor: 'I Picked the F---ing Wrong Thing to Do With My Life'

"I'm just at that point in my life now where I like being at home with Bo and the dogs," he said.

Corbett has dabbled in country music over the years, but even that pursuit failed to ignite the creative fulfillment he sought. He explained that the gaps between acting work left him feeling restless and uninspired.

"For that whole year, how do I get my, besides playing guitar and piano at home, how do I express myself?" he said.

The decision to leave Hollywood behind and focus on his personal life has brought Corbett a sense of peace and contentment. He may occasionally return to acting if a particularly intriguing project arises, but his primary focus remains on his relationship with Derek and the tranquility of their home life.

Corbett has also expressed high regard for his "And Just Like That" co-star, Sarah Jessica Parker. "If I had to act the rest of my life with just one person, it would be her. There's something about this girl …she's the best," he said.

While Corbett may have doubts about his career choice, his talent and dedication are undeniable. He has graced the screens of millions and left an unforgettable mark on the entertainment industry. His honesty and self-reflection serve as a reminder that the pursuit of fulfillment and happiness can take many unexpected paths.