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When I joined the show, it was for two episodes.
But I dont think that had been decided yet when I got on board.
Fortunately for me, she wanted to explore the character.
What do you think allows him to be that way?Its two things.
The main thing, I think, is his love for Helen.
He is really in love with her, and so really tolerates her, at times, erratic behavior.
He understands, too, the challenges shes facing with everything that has happened in her life.
Vics reaction to his pancreatic-cancer diagnosis is, basically, Lets ignore it and have a baby!
But Helen goes against his wishes and tells his mother that hes sick.
The stakes are so high, emotionally, because both of them are dealing with this terrible news.
And on top of that, Im working with such a great actor in Maura Tierney.
Did it matter that you were in such a confined space?
I think its emblematic of the situation that these two characters find themselves in theres nowhere to go.
Theres no way really out of this thing.
And theyre on this journey together.
I think where the scene takes place is a symbol for all of that.
One question we were wrestling with was where to pitch the scene emotionally.
Its an intense, heartbreaking scene, but also sheds new light on Helen and Vics relationship.
Theres a lot of duty and obligation.
You mean Helen sharing his diagnosis?Exactly.
As usual withThe Affair, everybodys to blame for the mistakes that happen.
But thats why the show is compelling.
Thats real life.Its incredibly human, isnt it?
Thats one of the best qualities of the show.
Its very real in that way.
I dont know for sure, but I dont think that would be my response.
When I first read that, I had to really think about it.
What is this about?
As the season unfolds, we understand that more and more, and he understands that more and more.
The show thankfully has a lot of well-placed, but subtle moments of levity.
Vics bring your own crystal line to Sierra is certainly one of them.
One of the things I love about playing Vic is that the writers let him be funny.
Given how serious this show can be, I think thats a good thing.
