As Rainn Wilson, the acclaimed actor behind the iconic character Dwight Schrute in the NBC sitcom The Office, departed from his comedic roots, he made a significant shift by joining the cast of Six Feet Under, a dark and intense family drama. Wilson’s character, Arthur Martin, an intern at the Fisher & Diaz Funeral Home, brought a much-needed light-hearted touch to the show, filled with complex characters and intense storylines. Wilson’s staccato delivery and shy demeanor made his character stand out from the rest, and he quickly became an integral part of the cast.
Wilson made his debut in the third season episode “The Trap” and went on to share memorable scenes with Frances Conroy’s character, Ruth Fisher. Their romance, strained given the significant age difference between Ruth, a newly widowed woman in her 60s, and Arthur, a virgin in his early 30s, was electric. Wilson’s Arthur struggled to navigate his first serious romantic relationship, and their attempts at physical intimacy were awkward and cumbersome but ultimately sweet and endearing.
One of the standout scenes of the season was in Episode 6, “Making Love Work”, where Arthur and Ruth worked together to cover up a mistake he had made with a body. Wilson’s Arthur was in panic mode, seeking to make amends with his bosses, including Rico, showcasing his character’s eager-to-please nature, reminiscent of Dwight Schrute’s. Throughout his time on Six Feet Under, Wilson demonstrated his range as an actor, effortlessly transitioning from comedic to dramatic scenes.
Rainn Wilson (Via Rainn Wilson/Twitter)
His chemistry with Frances Conroy was undeniable, and their awkward romance remained one of the most memorable aspects of the show. Rainn Wilson’s performances in Six Feet Under showcased his ability to bring depth and complexity to his characters, solidifying his position as a talented and versatile actor. Wilson’s departure from his comedic roots and exploration of dramatic roles marked a significant turning point in his career, demonstrating his willingness to take risks and push himself as an artist.
Wilson’s time on Six Feet Under served as a testament to his exceptional acting abilities, cementing his status as a multifaceted performer. His ability to bring nuance and depth to his characters, whether comedic or dramatic, has made him a respected and sought-after actor in the industry. With his impressive range and versatility, Rainn Wilson has solidified his position as one of the most talented actors of his generation, showcasing his remarkable journey from comedy to dramatic roles.
