Jeremy Piven: A Theatrical Journey from Hollywood to Kiwi Shores

Multimedia Journalist – NZ Herald

Describing Jeremy Piven as hardworking, energetic, and hilarious barely scratches the surface. This Golden Globe winner is set to grace New Zealand for the first time in July, bringing his electrifying and sharp-witted stand-up comedy to an eager Kiwi audience.

Known for his dynamic portrayal of characters ranging from the entrepreneurial Mr. Selfridge to the charismatic yet abrasive super-agent Ari Gold from “Entourage,” Piven opens up to Mitchell Hageman about his diverse career in acting, amusing encounters in public restrooms, and the essence of staying true to oneself.

“Anger is like punishing yourself for someone else’s mistake—similar to torching your Tesla,” Piven jokes, recalling instances where “Entourage” fans urged him to hurl Ari Gold-style expletives at them. Initially, these persistent requests were daunting for Piven (“Sir, I’m at the urinal, could you give me a moment?”). Reflecting on them now, he feels a sense of gratitude.

“It might get awkward, but you learn how to handle your emotions and mature. Now, I view it as a blessing. It’s touching to realize how deeply someone values the work I’ve done.”

Fans aren’t just drawn to Ari Gold’s fiery antics; they appreciate Piven’s broad spectrum of work, notably his kudos-worthy role as a historical department store magnate in “Mr. Selfridge,” a show cherished by New Zealanders during its 2013-16 broadcast.

“Mr. Selfridge,” chronicling American retail pioneer Harry Selfridge, was Piven’s next major project after “Entourage,” a shift he describes as a “complete 180.” New Zealand’s enthusiasm for the series continues to surprise him, especially considering its quieter reception in the United States.

“In the UK, business is conducted traditionally, with integrity. They prefer to collaborate with genuinely decent individuals,” Piven explains about sealing his “Mr. Selfridge” deal. “Rather than opting for Amazon, Netflix, or Hulu, they chose PBS. PBS is fantastic, but being publicly funded, they lack the advertisement budget, leading to limited US viewership.”

Hailing from New York and growing up in Chicago, Piven shares a humorous encounter with British fans surprised to learn he wasn’t British feigning an American accent for “Selfridge.” “They said, ‘You’re incredible! A true thespian. Where are you from? Oh, American? In that case, you’re a dreadful actor!’ ” he reminisces, alluding to the confusion over his first name.

Piven has embraced an array of roles throughout his career, from gritty crime sagas like “Sin City: A Dame to Kill For” to family favorites like “Spy Kids: All the Time in the World.” Yet, his heart remains tethered to the stage, fueling his thriving stand-up venture.

An avid admirer of Kiwi sports figures like Israel Adesanya and Joseph Parker, Piven likens his career trajectory to theirs, attributing success to diverse training backgrounds. “Since the age of 8, I’ve been acting on stage, dabbling in improv which cultivates on-the-spot comedic writing,” he reflects.

Another profound influence in his theatric upbringing was his mother, Joyce Piven, a distinguished acting coach and theater director who passed away earlier this year.

“Her advice might have been sparse, but it was insightful and impactful,” he reminisces. “She was an artist at her core, even until her final days, and I was fortunate to know her.”

Theater exercises fostered Piven’s confidence and skills, qualities that undoubtedly benefited numerous young actors entering the industry. “She empowered us with the belief that we were enough. To have fun and embrace our playful nature,” he says. “Role models like her are pivotal in one’s progress.”

Joyce’s encouragement also inspired Piven’s current passion: adapting Arthur Miller’s short story, “The Performance.” The narrative explores a Jewish tap dancer’s peculiar one-night show in 1930s Berlin. “She handed it over, saying, ‘This role suits you,’” Piven recalls, aware of her sincerity.

The film is also a family affair with Piven’s sister, Shira Piven, directing, adding personal significance.

Amidst the laughter, sorrow, chaos, and humor, Piven reassures those grappling with the tumultuous world of entertainment that they aren’t alone. “Ironically, the last book I gave my mom, ‘The Four Agreements,’ emphasized being true to your word and not comparing yourself to others,” he shares.

With this mindset and sharp wit, Jeremy Piven promises an entertaining relief from New Zealand’s winter blues, eagerly anticipating the connection with Kiwi audiences.