History and Inspiration in “Young Washington”
NEW YORK, July 3 — Kelsey Grammer, known for his iconic role in “Frasier,” believes that his character, Thomas Fairfax, a Virginia planter from the 18th century, plays a crucial role in shaping history in the upcoming film “Young Washington.”
In a recent Zoom interview, Grammer remarked, “He’s extremely important because he’s the person who really secures George Washington’s first mandate.” He goes on to describe how Fairfax recognizes something in Washington that reminded him of himself, saying that Fairfax was interested in land in Ohio and thought Washington might be a good fit for that opportunity.
Fairfax is essentially reaching out, perhaps a bit like a mentor, as Grammer adds, “They are neighbors. I know him somehow. He’s a promising player, and I think he saw his potential and decided to create an opportunity for himself. He says, ‘Okay, join the game.’ That was fun. It’s not just a great play scene; it’s significant because he’s the one who started the engine.”
The film, set to hit theaters this Friday, features William Franklin Miller as George Washington, who would later become the first president of the United States. Mary-Louise Parker portrays Washington’s mother, while Andy Serkis takes on the role of Major General Edward Braddock from the French and Indian War, and Ben Kingsley plays Robert Dinwiddie, the British Lieutenant Governor of Virginia.
Directed and written by John Irwin, known for films like “Jesus Revolution,” Irwin expressed his passion for adapting true stories. He stated, “True stories mean so much to me because they really happened. If a story touches you emotionally, in a life-changing way, then you just want to bring it to a global audience.”
Reflecting on his fascination with the American Revolution, Irwin mentioned, “About 10 years ago, when I started reading a lot about it, I was moved by the drama and the unlikely events that shaped America. The very fact that this country is here is a miracle.”
Irwin is particularly intrigued by Washington himself, noting how many see him merely as a statue or figure on currency. “I was very interested when I learned, ‘Where did this person come from?’” he said, adding that Washington’s childhood and coming-of-age story were compelling to him.
“He was forged in experiences that we all go through, but we often don’t attribute failure or hardship to great leaders,” Irwin explained. “But he persevered, learned, and kept moving forward. I think there’s a lesson there for all of us.”
He views the film as a love letter to America, especially fitting as the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary. “An origin story of our original founders felt like a great way to start it. We’re grateful that it’s coming out on this milestone anniversary,” Irwin stated.
Grammer hopes the film will serve as a reminder of how and why the country was established. He noted a contemporary trend to dismiss the contributions of the Founding Fathers, sometimes labeling them as “old white men,” which, in his view, diminishes their achievements.
He added, “What John did was energize them and realize that they were young men. They had the will to fight even when they weren’t fully accepted or recognized for who they were.”
The Emmy Award-winning actor expressed his hope that viewers will be inspired by what they see on screen. “If we can reconnect people today to our ancestors, they’ll feel energized by the same dreams of possibility,” he said. “America is a place where dreaming is more likely than succumbing to disappointment. Let’s portray that for younger audiences who may discover themselves in a young Washington.”
