Larry Drake Quotes

Powerful Larry Drake for Daily Growth

About Larry Drake

Larry Drake (June 19, 1950 – March 16, 2016) was an American actor known for his compelling performances in film and television. Born in Phoenix, Arizona, he grew up in a family that valued the arts, which significantly influenced his career choice. At age 14, Drake suffered a near-fatal car accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. This life-altering event did not deter him but rather fueled his passion for acting, as he found solace in the world of theater during his recovery. He attended Arizona State University and later graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Theater, Film, and Television. Drake's breakthrough role came in 1984 when he was cast as Benji Stimson in the TV series "St. Elsewhere." His portrayal earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Series, Miniseries or Television Film and an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series. Throughout his career, Drake appeared in various films and television shows, including "Darkman," "The Mask," "Lonesome Dove," and "Life with Bonnie." However, he will forever be remembered for his poignant portrayal of Benji Stimson, a character whose physical challenges mirrored his own. In 2016, Drake passed away due to complications from pneumonia. His legacy lives on through the powerful performances he delivered and the inspiration he provided to others with disabilities pursuing careers in acting. Some of his most notable quotes include: 1. "I've never considered myself a disabled person. I consider myself an actor who happens to be wheelchair-bound." 2. "I was born with this body, so it's my reality. But the difference between me and a lot of people is that they don't like their reality; they want something different." 3. "People often tell me I'm an inspiration just because I am an actor who happens to be in a wheelchair. But if I can inspire people, then I'm happy about it. I hope my work has inspired them to pursue their dreams, regardless of what obstacles they might face."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Life is a challenge to be met, and I believe that we all rise to our own level of incompetence."

This quote by Larry Drake suggests that people tend to perform at their most incompetent level in areas where they have overestimated their abilities or competencies. Essentially, when one takes on challenges beyond their current skillset without proper preparation or knowledge, they may struggle more than necessary due to a lack of understanding and experience. The quote encourages us to recognize our limits and strive for improvement in order to meet life's challenges effectively and efficiently.


"Success is not measured by what you accomplish, but by the opposition you have encountered, and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds."

This quote suggests that success should not be defined solely by achievements or outcomes, but by the adversities overcome and the resilience demonstrated in pursuing one's goals despite significant obstacles. In other words, it is the journey – the challenges faced and the courage shown in facing them – that truly defines success.


"I don't care where I am as long as I can write."

This quote expresses Larry Drake's deep passion for writing. Regardless of his physical location, what matters most to him is the ability to create and express himself through words. It underscores the importance he places on his art and the freedom it gives him - even in the face of external circumstances - to continue pursuing his creative endeavors.


"I've always said that I was just a guy who got lucky in an odd way."

This quote suggests that Larry Drake, despite his success and acclaim as an actor, views himself as an ordinary individual who simply happened to have an extraordinary career opportunity come his way. He's acknowledging good fortune and luck, but emphasizing the importance of individual character and circumstances in shaping a person's life trajectory. Essentially, he sees himself as not just a talented actor, but a fortunate one who seized the moment when it came to him.


"I think we all have our own inner demons and we try to find ways to control them or to cope with them."

This quote suggests that everyone struggles with personal challenges, fears, or emotional issues, which can be metaphorically referred to as "inner demons." These challenges may manifest in various forms and can lead to distress or negativity. The second part of the quote implies that individuals strive to develop strategies for managing these inner demons, either by controlling them directly or finding ways to cope with their impact on our lives. This struggle is a universal aspect of the human condition, and understanding this can foster empathy and compassion towards others who may be grappling with their own internal struggles.


My parents did their best - that earns a lot of forgiveness. But they say children grow up in spite of their parents, and I think I did.

- Larry Drake

Grow, Think, I Think, Spite

As an actor, what I can do is tell the truth. At least, I hope I can tell the truth - a dramatic truth, but still an honest portrayal.

- Larry Drake

Truth, Actor, Still, Portrayal

I've done fine in this business, but I've never made quite enough money to have a family or have many options.

- Larry Drake

Business, Enough, Made, Enough Money

Love is a wonderful thing that one misses.

- Larry Drake

Love, Wonderful Thing, Love Is

The imperfections in my family made me learn to deal with things on my own and solve problems for myself.

- Larry Drake

Learn, Deal, My Own, Imperfections

If I get too type-cast, that's the worst possible scenario.

- Larry Drake

Get, Worst, Too, Scenario

Characters actors don't usually get noticed until they're about 38 or so.

- Larry Drake

Get, About, Characters, Noticed

I studied drama.

- Larry Drake

Drama, Studied

I moved to Dallas in 1975 and stayed there until 1980. That's when I decided it was time to move to L.A.

- Larry Drake

Move, Moved, Decided, Dallas

I can't be a role model. I just can't be.

- Larry Drake

Role, Just, Model, Role Model

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