‘Whiplash’ JK Simmons Talks Quitting Acting Before Academy Award Win

J.K Simmons recently brought home the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, for his role in Whiplash, but the 60-year-old actor hasn’t always had it so easy. Despite his critically acclaimed role as on HBO’s OZ, Simmons was known to most at the Yellow M&M (and of corse J. J. Jameson from Spider-Man). Now, Simmons is offering some career advice to young artist and creative types.

After winning his Oscar J.K.Simmons opened to reporters about how he almost quit Hollywood years ago (via The Washington Post):

“I almost got back on the bus a handful of times, and if I had had any reasonable options, I probably would have.”

The Farmers Insurance spokesman went to add a little bit of advice to artist who are lucky enough to have other skills:

“I read a very romantic book when I was young, when I was in college, Rilke’s ‘Letters to a Young Poet.’ And I’ve always felt that if you are in any kind of an artistic, creative endeavor and you feel there’s something else you can do for a living and be happy, I think you should do something else. Because you’re much more likely to find comfort and happiness. If you can look deeply in yourself and say there is nothing else that can bring you satisfaction. That’s your answer.”

What do you think about J.K. Simmons’ comments? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section at the bottom of the page. Unless you would be happier doing something else.