I experience psychic phenomena, so people think I must be crazy. But you have to be accessible and intelligent to be a good actor. I might not have gotten the best grades in school, but I have a very high level of emotional intelligence. You have to be open to receive.

Christine Ebersole’s quote, "I experience psychic phenomena, so people think I must be crazy. But you have to be accessible and intelligent to be a good actor. I might not have gotten the best grades in school, but I have a very high level of emotional intelligence. You have to be open to receive," speaks to her unique perspective on the qualities that make someone a good actor. Ebersole acknowledges that some people might view her experiences with psychic phenomena as unusual or even a sign of craziness, but she points out that being an effective actor requires more than just traditional academic intelligence; it requires a high degree of emotional and intuitive awareness.

The mention of emotional intelligence emphasizes the importance of understanding and connecting with one's emotions, as well as the ability to empathize with others. As an actor, Ebersole suggests that this kind of intelligence is essential because it allows one to access the depth of human experiences, both on a personal level and through the roles they portray. Being accessible in this context means being open, approachable, and emotionally available to others—key traits for an actor who must immerse themselves in a wide range of characters and emotions.

Ebersole contrasts emotional intelligence with traditional measures of success, like academic grades, showing that her strengths lie in her intuition, empathy, and the ability to be open to receiving and expressing emotions. By doing so, she highlights how actors often thrive on their capacity to tap into their emotional depth, which isn’t always measurable through conventional means, such as grades or intellectual achievements.

The origin of this quote likely comes from Ebersole’s career in theater and film, where emotional depth and the ability to connect with both the character and the audience are paramount. Known for her work in Broadway shows and various television roles, Ebersole’s experiences as an actress have led her to embrace the importance of emotional and psychic openness in her craft. Her quote suggests that acting isn’t just about intellectual knowledge, but about being deeply in tune with oneself and others to fully embody the characters one portrays.