Paul Mescal to Ration Work Schedule to Avoid Career Resentment

Jason Sargent Monday, January 5, 2026

- - Paul Mescal to Ration Work Schedule to Avoid Career Resentment

Miu von FurstenbergJanuary 5, 2026 at 5:30 AM

Irish actor Paul Mescal has revealed plans to ration work in the coming years, citing concerns about potentially growing to resent his thriving career in film and theater.

The 29-year-old star, who rose to international prominence through his breakout role as Connell Waldron in the BBC series Normal People, opened up about the challenges of maintaining a demanding schedule in a recent interview with The Guardian.

“I’m five or six years into this now, and I feel very lucky. But I’m also learning that I don’t think I can go on doing it as much,” Mescal shared, reflecting on his rapid rise in the entertainment industry.

When asked directly whether he plans to ration himself, the actor confirmed his intentions. “I think so. I’m gonna have to start doing that. For sure,” he stated.

Paul Mescal promotes ‘Hamnet’ on the ’Today’ show in New York City on November 21, 2025. Photo Credit: Roger Wong/INSTARimages

The Kildare native has built an impressive filmography in recent years, starring in critically acclaimed projects including Aftersun and the blockbuster Gladiator II. He also has two upcoming dramas in the pipeline: Hamnet and The History of Sound.

However, this success has come at a personal cost. Mescal explained that emotionally demanding roles take a significant toll. “It means learning that films like The History Of Sound take more out of the well. You can’t keep going back and expect to consistently deliver something you’re proud of,” he noted.

The actor acknowledged uncertainty about what this career adjustment will look like in practice. “What that (career) rationing looks like, I don’t know,” Mescal admitted.

Paul Mescal at a screening of ‘Hamnet’ at the Southbank Centre, Royal Festival Hall, London, as part of the BFI London Film Festival on October 11, 2025. Photo Credit: Steve Vas/Future Image/Cover Images

One possibility involves returning to his theatrical roots. “I miss being on stage, so I might have a time when I’m only doing theatre for a couple of years. I also have different priorities in my personal life that I want to attend to,” he said.

At the heart of his decision is a desire to protect his relationship with acting. “I don’t want to resent the thing I love. This sounds bold, but I’d rather not be on the train if that is the choice,” Paul Mescal stated emphatically.

The actor is currently promoting Hamnet, directed by Chloe Zhao, in which he portrays William Shakespeare opposite Jessie Buckley as Agnes. The film explores the couple’s grief following the loss of their son.

Paul Mescal wore Gucci grey wool pants, a striped cotton shirt, a vintage Gucci silk tie with and Gucci 1953 loafers in black leather at “The History Of Sound” New York Premiere at Walter Reade Theater on September 02, 2025 in New York City. Image Courtesy of Getty Images

Looking ahead, Mescal hinted at taking a significant break from the spotlight. “Once I’ve finished promoting that, I hope nobody gets to see me until 2028 when I’m doing the Beatles,” he revealed. “People will get a break from me and I’ll get a break from them,” he added.

Despite stepping back from film, the actor’s schedule remains full. He will make his British National Theatre debut in 2027, starring in productions of A Whistle In The Dark and Death Of A Salesman. This follows his 2023 Olivier Award win for a stage adaptation of A Streetcar Named Desire.

Mescal’s candid comments reflect a growing awareness among actors about the importance of work-life balance and mental health in an industry known for its relentless demands.

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