In a recent video interview with Extra, actor Tom Holland revealed that he will be taking a year off from acting after completing the demanding production of his upcoming Apple TV+ crime thriller, “The Crowded Room.” The series, based on the real-life crimes of Billy Milligan, explores the story of Danny Sullivan, played by Holland, who is arrested for his involvement in a shooting at Rockefeller Center and diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder.
During the interview, Holland candidly discussed the emotional toll that the show’s production took on him. He expressed that the role required him to delve into unfamiliar and intense emotions, which coupled with his responsibilities as a producer, created an added level of pressure. Holland acknowledged the learning curve of taking on a dual role but confessed that juggling both responsibilities, along with portraying a character with severe mental health struggles, pushed him to his limits.
The actor shared that the experience was so challenging that it prompted him to take a break and seek solace in a week-long trip to Mexico. Holland emphasized that the decision to take a year off from acting was a direct result of the difficulties he faced during the production of “The Crowded Room.” However, he remains hopeful and excited to see the final result, believing that their hard work will not be in vain.
In a previous interview with Entertainment Weekly, Holland disclosed that his involvement in the series had a profound impact on his personal life. He confessed to experiencing a “bit of a meltdown,” finding it difficult to separate himself from the character he portrayed. Although initially considering shaving his head to disconnect from the role, Holland ultimately decided against it due to the ongoing filming.
Moreover, Holland shared a significant personal milestone, revealing that he has been sober for one year and four months. He credited “The Crowded Room” for transforming his perspective on mental health, allowing him to understand and recognize triggers that affect his well-being, such as social media.
“The Crowded Room” boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Amanda Seyfried, Sasha Lane, Will Chase, Lior Raz, Laila Robins, Christopher Abbott, and Henry Eikenberry. The highly anticipated series is set to premiere on June 9th, exclusively on Apple TV+.
