Mark Wahlberg, the multifaceted actor-producer known for his charismatic presence both on and off the screen, is hinting at a potential retirement from acting.
In a recent interview with Cigar Aficionado, the 52-year-old 'Me Time' actor discussed the possibility of stepping away from the limelight to focus more on his burgeoning career behind the camera, Variety reported.
Mark Wahlberg Contemplates Retirement
Wahlberg candidly expressed his thoughts on retirement, stating, "Well, I'm certainly working harder now than ever. Certain businesses, you kind of build them, pass them on, or you exit."
He went on to suggest that his children's interests might play a role in his decision, saying, "Hopefully, my kids, we'll see what their interests are, but I don't think that I'll be acting that much longer at the pace I am now. That's for sure. Because that's the most difficult thing."
The actor and producer, who shares four children with his wife Rhea Durham, has had an illustrious career spanning decades. He began as a member of the hip hop group Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch in the 1990s before making his screen debut in 1994's 'Renaissance Man.'
However, it was his role in the HBO series 'Entourage,' which ran for eight seasons from 2004 to 2011, that catapulted him to stardom and laid the foundation for his successful production company, Closest to the Hole, established in 2004. Wahlberg's entrepreneurial spirit also led him to announce an ownership stake in Flecha Azul Tequila last year.
Wahlberg's transition into producing was driven by a desire for creative control and autonomy in his career. He explained, "I started producing out of necessity. I didn't want to sit around waiting for Brad Pitt or Tom Cruise or whoever was already established before me and were the guys at the time, and Leo [DiCaprio] to go and pass on a movie until I could get my hands on it."
He emphasized the importance of creating his own path and opportunities in the industry. Over the years, Wahlberg has produced a diverse range of films and television shows, including the 'Shooter' series, 'Instant Family,' 'Ballers,' 'McMillions,' 'Run This City,' 'Joe Bell,' 'The Lost Lincoln,' and 'In Treatment.
His passion for producing has grown, and he expressed his preference for being behind the wheel when it comes to creative endeavors. Wahlberg sees producing as a way to have a more active role in shaping the content he's involved in.
Wahlberg's contemplation of retirement coincides with his recent relocation from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. He explained that this move was primarily motivated by a desire to provide a better life and opportunities for his children, each of whom has their own distinct interests.
He shared, "I spent lots of time in LA pursuing my interests and my career, and now it's time for them to pursue theirs. Everybody is thriving there. It's been great."
The actor and producer's decision to move to Las Vegas has been driven by a desire to support his children's aspirations. He elaborated on this during an appearance on 'The Talk,' saying, "We came here to just kind of give ourselves a new look, a fresh start for the kids. There's a lot of opportunity here. I'm really excited about the future," according to Fox News.
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Mark Wahlberg's Las Vegas Adventure
Wahlberg highlighted the vibrant entertainment scene in Las Vegas, where he has already attended shows by Adele and Bruno Mars and explored numerous fine dining establishments. As Mark Wahlberg looks ahead to the future, it seems that he is not only considering stepping away from his acting career but also embracing the boundless opportunities that producing and his new life in Las Vegas offer.
His dedication to creating and controlling his destiny in the entertainment industry remains unwavering, and his ability to adapt and excel in various roles is a testament to his enduring talent and entrepreneurial spirit.
While his retirement from acting may be on the horizon, Mark Wahlberg's influence in Hollywood and beyond is sure to endure through his productions and other ventures, as per the New York Post.
