Jason Bateman’s 'Ozark' Magic Rubs off on Eric La Salle as He Masters Acting, Directing, and Producing ‘On Call'

Published 01/13/2025, 1:27 AM EST

In a world where specialization is often the norm, a rare breed of creatives dares to defy convention by mastering multiple artistic pursuits. Jason Bateman is a shining example, effortlessly morphing into triple roles that of an actor, director, and producer in a single piece of work. Further with his latest projects, Bateman proved that creativity knows no bounds. His range has earned him a loyal following and inspired aspiring artists.

As a result, he has become more of an ideal role model for those looking to make their mark in the entertainment industry. For instance, Eric La Salle.

Jason Bateman's Ozark gigs left a lasting mark on Eric La Salle

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Speaking in an interview with Collider, Eriq La Salle revealed what drew him to his latest project. "I wanted to do a trifecta. I wanted to do the acting, directing, and exec producing on this scale," he said. La Salle credited Jason Bateman's work on Ozark as a major inspiration for this goal, highlighting the impact of Bateman's successful trifecta on the series.

La Salle praised Bateman's achievement on the hit Netflix crime thriller saying it sparked his ambition to do the same. "I was very much inspired by the great work Jason Bateman did on Ozark in those three roles," he said. He felt his latest project was the perfect opportunity to take on this challenge and was proud to have been given the chance to do so, aiming to showcase his versatility and talent in multiple aspects of On Call.

Watch: First Look At Jason Bateman and Laura Linney's Behind the Screens for Netflix’s ‘Black Rabbit’ From 2024

Not just him, his fellow co-director Jason Bateman, Laura Linney too, was so awestruck by his work, that she thought twice before accompanying him on his journey, out of complex issues.

Laura Linney had second thoughts for directing Ozark seeing the master at play

Laura Linney's reluctance to direct Ozark stemmed from a desire to preserve her relationship with Emmy-winning co-star and director, Jason Bateman. She jokingly feared becoming an "idiot director" who was clueless about steering the ship. Moreover, even after aceing the role, Linney's humility shone through as she credited Bateman for encouraging her to take the reins.

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Despite her successful directorial debut in Ozark's final season, Linney still identifies as an actor. However, she was grateful to Bateman for pushing her out of her comfort zone, she said. As of the latest, the duo is set to reunite as directors for Black Rabbit, a project that will likely evoke memories of their Ozark days.

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What are your thoughts on Salle's comments and inspiration he acquired from the very talented Jason Bateman? Let us know in the comments below.

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Shraddha Suman

2160 articles

Shraddha Das is a Content Lead and the Sub Group Head at Netflix Junkie. Captivated by the power of storytelling and the written word at a young age, which led her to pursue a career in journalism at the Esteemed KIIT School of Journalism and Mass Communication, in Orissa. She has over 1500 articles to her name.

Edited By: Aliza Siddiqui

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