When Jason Bateman slipped into the role of Marty Bryde for the gripping Netflix series Ozark, besides its thematic tropes and award season runs, the viewers celebrated the high-octane drama because of the actor’s dynamism with Laura Linney. In addition to starring in the series, Bateman also directed several episodes of the Netflix show where the impetus of character-driven storylines was felt more abundantly. Although his on-screen counterpart is no rookie in directorial efforts, Linney wished to distance herself from the role for a crucial reason.

Linney was reportedly wary of compromising her harmony with Bateman, but was that truly all?

In a conversation on Jason Bateman’s Smartless podcast, Ozark co-star Laura Linney revealed she never really desired to direct the Netflix series. Although Linney disclosed that in part her decision alluded to her fear of ruining her relationship with Bateman, she also did not want to be one of those “idiot directors who you’re saddled with,” who are clueless about where to steer the ship. “I didn't want to be one of those people,” she stated.

Bateman took hold of the conversation and praised Linney’s directorial debut as "incredible" in the 11th episode of Ozark’s last season, Pound of Flesh and Still Kickin’. While she humbly agreed, Linney still did not think of herself primarily as a director but more of an actor who has directed a select few things until now. However, all she had was gratitude for Bateman for giving her the opportunity to get out of her comfort zone and get on the director’s chair for the Ozark episode.

Netflix’s ‘Ozark’ Star Laura Linney Reveals a Little-Known Secret About Her On-Screen Husband, Jason Bateman

Laura Linney’s praises for Jason Bateman are for good reason, given he went out of the way to curate a remarkable experience for the cast and crew. Despite initial concerns about potential distance, she revealed the bedrock of their synergy.

In her conversation with Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes on the Smartless podcast, Laura Linney revealed a lesser-known secret about her Ozark co-star. The hosts were on the lookout for some classic Bateman quirks, but Linney instead shared something she learned from her journey with him. The reason Linney believes their friendship works so well is because of the diverse ways they both operate.

Of course, the different cultures and backgrounds play a part, but her favorite thing to do is watch Bateman do his thing. Linney even gushed, calling his direction “just kind of amazing.” She believes having Bateman as a director on any project only brings more potential because he has been at it for so long, it is more or less in his blood now. To her, his level of skill is the stuff of dreams, which only amplified her initial concerns of being overshadowed by a maestro and exposed as an amateur.

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What do you think of Laura Linney's reasons for not wanting to direct Ozark with Jason Bateman? Let us know in the comments below!