I met Peter O'Toole for the first time at Dad's memorial service because my Dad didn't hang around with people like that when we were around. We didn't grow up with Richard Burton coming around to tea.

In this quote, Jared Harris reflects on his first encounter with Peter O'Toole at his dad's memorial service, a moment that underscores the contrast between the life his father led and the famous personalities that Harris came into contact with later. Harris notes that his father didn’t associate with high-profile figures like O'Toole or Richard Burton, two renowned actors, when Harris was growing up. This suggests that his father, possibly a more private or humble individual, kept his personal life separate from the glamour and attention of the entertainment industry.

Harris' statement, "We didn’t grow up with Richard Burton coming around to tea," emphasizes the humility and grounded nature of his upbringing. The lack of exposure to celebrity culture during his childhood likely shaped Harris' perspective on fame and success. He contrasts the normalcy of his family life with the celebrity world he would later encounter, highlighting a disconnect between the two worlds.

The mention of his father’s relationship with the entertainment industry, or lack thereof, also suggests that Harris grew up in an environment where personal connections were valued more than public recognition. The idea that his father didn’t seek fame or surround himself with famous people likely instilled a sense of authenticity in Harris. It implies that his family valued substance over superficial connections, a theme often associated with those who are not caught up in the entertainment industry's allure.

Ultimately, Jared Harris' quote reveals the contrast between his upbringing and the world of celebrity he later entered, giving insight into his perspective on fame and the nature of relationships within the entertainment industry. His reflections also reveal an appreciation for the modesty and privacy his father maintained, even in the face of potential association with legendary figures like O'Toole and Burton.