Behind the Scenes with Wentworth Miller

The Good, the Bad, and the OMG!

By Michael Alvear

Author & columnist, featured on HBO, NPR, and in The New York Times

 

Early Days & Breakout: Wentworth's career began with small-screen stints in shows like "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Popular," before landing his defining role in 2005: Michael Scofield in Fox's breakout drama "Prison Break." The tattooed, genius engineer captivated audiences with his elaborate escape plans, earning Miller a Golden Globe nomination and launching him into superstardom.

Beyond Bars: Post-"Prison Break," Miller navigated diverse roles, from voicing D-10 in "Heroes: Reborn" to playing Captain Cold in The CW's superhero universe, including "The Flash" and "Legends of Tomorrow." He also explored his own writing talents, co-writing and directing the 2013 thriller "Stoker."

Check out his wins, his flops, and everything in between, including some personal stories and quirky trivia that'll make you feel like you know him just a little bit better. Here's what we'll cover in this article:

• Physical Characteristics   Relationship Status
• When He Came Out          How He Got Started         
• His Big Break                       His Best Work                     
• His Biggest Flops               Little Known Facts
• His Lesser Known Work That Critics & Audiences Loved.
• Awards & Nominations      Interesting Trivia
• Fascinating Personal Anecdotes
• Interesting Trivia
• The Unforgettable Things He's Said
• Behind-The-Scenes Anecdotes From His Shows & Movies
• The Hot Water He's Gotten Himself Into
• Praise From Critics, Bosses, Competitors & Peers 
• Stinging Critiques, Insults Or Take-Downs From Critics, Bosses, Competitors & Peers

Physical Characteristics

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of Wentworth Miller's physical form, because let's be honest, that's what half the internet wants to know anyway. Buckle up, because we're about to dissect this dude like he's Michael Scofield planning his next escape (minus the whole, you know, being fictional thing).

Height: Dude's a skyscraper. 6'1" of pure leading-man material, making him the perfect arm candy for those who like their eye candy served tall and brooding. Imagine Captain Cold casting shade from above – now that's a power move.

Build: Forget Michael Scofield's scrawny prison bod, Miller's got the kind of shoulders that could hold up the weight of all those terrible CW superhero crossovers. Think broad, think strong, think "I could definitely bench-press you while simultaneously reciting Shakespearean sonnets."

Hair: It's like the Bermuda Triangle of hairstyles – you get lost in those dark, salt-and-pepper waves and suddenly it's three hours later and you're questioning your life choices. Seriously, this hair has its own fan club, and for good reason. It's basically the physical embodiment of a slow burn.

Eyes: Okay, here's where things get interesting. They're not your typical baby blues or smoldering brown – they're like a stormy sea, constantly shifting between playful glints and brooding depths. You can practically see the existential angst swirling in those irises. Bonus points for the killer eyebrow game that could raise an eyebrow (and a few heartbeats) from across the room.

Smile: When it finally graces your presence, it's like the sun breaking through the clouds after a week of superhero fight-induced rain. Rare, but oh-so-worth-it. It's the kind of smile that makes you question whether he's plotting your escape or your seduction, and honestly, either way, you're probably down.

Distinctive Features: Let's just say, if you ever get lost in a crowd at Comic-Con, all you gotta do is yell "Hey, Prison Break guy!" and boom, there he is, chiseled jawline and all. That, and the fact that he could probably charm his way out of a speeding ticket with just a look.

Relationship Status

As private as a bank vault guarded by penguins (looking at you, Captain Cold!), Miller keeps his love life under tighter wraps than Michael Scofield's escape plan. No confirmed partners, past or present, just rumors that swirl like the wind around a supervillain's lair. Some say he's single, others whisper about secret flings, but the only thing we know for sure is that his dating life is more mysterious than the TARDIS.

When He Came Out

In 2013, Wentworth Miller, the Hollywood enigma with the escape-artist pecs, decided to break out of the closet with a flourish. But unlike Michael Scofield's meticulously engineered prison break, Miller's coming out was less heist and more quiet defiance. Let's unravel the context, motivations, and reactions surrounding this pivotal moment.

Setting the Stage: 2013 wasn't exactly a rainbow parade for LGBTQ+ rights. In Russia, where Miller was invited to attend a film festival, the recently enacted "gay propaganda" law had ignited international outrage. Back in the U.S., marriage equality was still a dream, and the fight for trans rights was just gaining momentum.

A Personal Crossroads: On a professional level, Miller was riding high on the success of "Prison Break" but had recently stepped away from the spotlight. Personally, he'd grappled with mental health struggles and wrestled with the complexities of navigating the entertainment industry as a closeted gay man.

The Platform of Public Refusal: Instead of grand pronouncements, Miller chose a subtle yet powerful gesture. He declined the Russian film festival invitation, citing his "deeply troubled" feelings about the country's anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. In a letter posted on GLAAD's website, he stated, "If I attend, I would feel compelled to make a statement I can't bring myself to make at this time." This quiet act of defiance resonated deeply with the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

Reactions: A Spectrum of Support and Scrutiny: Some lauded Miller's courage, praising his decision to use his platform for activism. GLAAD's Herndon Graechen remarked, "Wentworth Miller is reminding us all that celebrities have a unique responsibility to speak out against injustice." Others, however, questioned the timing and platform, suggesting a more direct coming out statement within the U.S. might have had a greater impact.

The Ripple Effect: Miller's coming out, though understated, sparked important conversations about LGBTQ+ visibility, personal truths, and the power of quiet resistance. It empowered others to share their own stories and challenged Hollywood's often-homophobic norms. His decision didn't end discrimination, but it chipped away at the closet walls, paving the way for a more inclusive entertainment landscape.

Beyond the Headlines: Miller's journey hasn't been without its complexities. He's addressed the challenges of reconciling his public and private life, choosing to remain largely out of the spotlight while advocating for LGBTQ+ causes. His coming out was not a dramatic reveal, but a nuanced act of defiance that continues to reverberate with LGBTQ+ individuals and allies alike.

See our complete list of gay actors including Matt Bomer, Andrew Scott, & dozens more!

How He Got Started 

Forget Hollywood glam; picture a young Wentworth Miller, fresh out of Princeton, navigating the grungy underbelly of Los Angeles. No agent, no connections, just a suitcase full of Shakespeare and a hunger to tell stories. This wasn't the Ivy League fairytale, but it was the gritty prologue to a career brimming with unexpected twists.

Beyond the Books: Forget jock stereotypes, Wentworth was a theater geek disguised as a scholar. He wasn't just reciting sonnets for fun; the Princeton stage was his training ground, honing his craft under the watchful gaze of seasoned performers. One particularly influential mentor, the legendary Michael Kahn, instilled in him the power of vulnerability and truth in acting, lessons that would later fuel the raw emotions of Michael Scofield.

From Bard to Bartender: Hollywood reality slapped him hard. The temp jobs piled up, spreadsheets replacing soliloquies. But Wentworth wasn't about to let spreadsheets steal his soul. He used these mundane gigs as undercover reconnaissance missions, observing people, perfecting accents, and crafting characters from office drones. Remember that charming "Ted Foulke" persona? A carefully crafted cover, masking his Ivy League background while giving him access to industry whispers and audition intel.

Shakespearean Secrets: He couldn't just ditch his artistic roots, though. Shakespearean monologues became his secret weapon, whispered into the ears of unsuspecting colleagues, leaving them bewildered and intrigued. "Is that Hamlet I hear between TPS reports?" became a whispered legend, hinting at the depth simmering beneath the temp facade.

Buffy, Babysitting, and a Break in Dinotopia: Early roles were stepping stones, not spotlights. Guest stints on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Popular" showcased his versatility, from brooding bad boys to sarcastic charmers. He even babysat for Hollywood royalty, gleaning tips and tricks from the industry elite under the guise of diaper duty. But it was "Dinotopia" that proved a pivotal turning point. As David Scott, a brainy adventurer in a land of dinosaurs, Wentworth showed he could balance intellect and action, vulnerability and strength. "Dinotopia" wasn't just a show; it was a casting director's dream come true, a glimpse of the complex actor waiting to burst onto the scene.

So, the next time you see Wentworth Miller in the limelight, remember, his journey wasn't paved with red carpets. It was forged in temp offices, whispered Shakespeare, and dino-sized challenges. His Hollywood launch wasn't just about chasing fame; it was a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and proving that even the most brilliant minds can thrive in the grungiest of backstages. This wasn't just the story of an Ivy League actor breaking into Hollywood; it was the tale of a bard becoming a hustler, a scholar learning the streets, and a man crafting his own unexpected path to stardom.

His Big Break

Prison Break: From Box to Boom: 2005 hit like a prison riot with "Prison Break," and suddenly, everyone was googling "shirtless Michael Scofield" (don't deny it, you did too).

As the architect with a blueprint for freedom tattooed on his torso, Wentworth became the ultimate jailhouse eye candy. Dude was brainy, brawny, and could craft a shiv out of a toothbrush like nobody's business.

The critics loved the show's twists and turns, the fans swooned over Wentworth's biceps, and the industry saw a star in the making. Ratings soared, awards nominations followed, and Wentworth had officially broken out of the Hollywood B-list with a pickaxe and a whole lot of charm.

But was it just Prison Break, or was it more? Some argue that his earlier roles in shows like "Dinotopia" and "Popular" laid the groundwork, showcasing his acting chops and versatility. Others point to his Shakespearean background and early days in theater, where he honed his craft and learned to mesmerize audiences with just a well-placed soliloquy.

Whatever the origin story, there's no denying that "Prison Break" was the detonator that launched Wentworth into the stratosphere, making him a household name and proving that sometimes, the best way to get ahead is to break the freakin' rules.

So, was it the pecs, the plan, or the Princetonian past? Honestly, it was probably a cocktail of all three, shaken (not stirred) with a healthy dose of talent and hustle. Wentworth Miller's big break wasn't a single moment; it was a slow-burning prison riot of hard work, unexpected skills, and an escape plan so good, it made Hollywood sit up and take notice.

 He took his Ivy League brain, his Shakespearean soul, and his charming smirk, and used them to break out of the Hollywood holding cell and into the hearts of millions.

His Best Work

Wentworth Miller isn't just a pretty face (though, let's be real, it is a very pretty face). He's a chameleon of talent, effortlessly switching between action hero, dramatic powerhouse, and witty villain. So, strap in as we dive into the best of his body of work!

The Big Bang: Prison Break (2005-2017)

Let's face it, this iconic show launched Miller into the stratosphere. As Michael Scofield, the architect with a prison break blueprint tattooed on his pecs, he became a global heartthrob and TV's ultimate jailhouse bae.

Critical acclaim followed, with Golden Globe nominations and a dedicated fanbase praising the show's twists and turns. Rotten Tomatoes boasts a 75% critic score and 81% audience score for the first season, showcasing the show's impact.

Beyond Biceps: Expanding his Range

But Miller refused to be typecast. He wrote and directed the 2013 psychological thriller "Stoker," proving his storytelling chops and earning praise for its unsettling atmosphere and complex characters. Critics on Metacritic gave it a 66 score, highlighting its chilling visuals and Miller's bold filmmaking debut.

DC Universe Charmer: Captain Cold/Leonard Snart (2014-2021)

Embracing his villainous side, Miller's portrayal of Captain Cold in "The Flash" and "Legends of Tomorrow" redefined the character. He brought humor, charisma, and even vulnerability to the cold-hearted criminal, stealing scenes and hearts in equal measure. Fans adored his snarky one-liners and complex arc, while critics applauded his nuanced performance on Rotten Tomatoes (76% critic score for "The Flash" season 1).

His Biggest Flops

Even the most charming prison escape artist isn't immune to the occasional faceplant. Let's explore some of Wentworth Miller's professional stumbles, remembering that even flops can offer valuable lessons and pave the way for future triumphs.

Box Office Bombers:

• The Condemned (2007): This action flick, with Miller as a death row inmate forced to fight for his life, bombed with critics and audiences alike. Rotten Tomatoes gives it a measly 18% score, Box Office Mojo reports a budget of $40 million, and it only grossed $11.7 million domestically. Ouch.
• Resident Evil: Retribution (2012): While the "Resident Evil" franchise has its fans, this installment didn't resonate with everyone. Miller played a villainous agent, but the film received mixed reviews (36% score on Rotten Tomatoes) and grossed $296 million globally, falling short of the previous entries.

Short-Lived TV Stints:

• Timeless (2016-2018): This time-traveling adventure series had potential, with Miller showcasing his dramatic chops as a historian thrust into historical escapades. But, despite positive reviews (71% score on Rotten Tomatoes), viewership declined, and NBC axed it after two seasons.
• Madam Secretary (2014-2019): While this political drama enjoyed a long run, Miller's role as a tech whiz kid wasn't a major focus. He left after two seasons to pursue other projects, but the show continued without him.

Critical Duds:

• Stoker (2013): Miller's directorial debut received mixed reviews, praised by some for its unsettling atmosphere and bold storytelling, but criticized by others for its slow pacing and ambiguous characters. This psychological thriller holds a 66 score on Metacritic.

Career Timeline

Wentworth Miller Career Timeline (1997-2023)

• 1997: First television appearance in a guest role on the episode "Spiral" of Buffy the Vampire Slayer (as Gage Petronzi).

• 1998-2000: Guest roles in various television series, including Popular, Party of Five, and Judging Amy.

• 2001: Starring role in the Hallmark miniseries Dinotopia (as David Scott).

• 2002: Played the younger Coleman Silk in the film The Human Stain alongside Anthony Hopkins.

• 2003: Guest role in the pilot episode of Ghost Whisperer.

• 2005:

• Breakthrough role: Cast as Michael Scofield in the Fox drama series Prison Break, launching him to stardom.

• Nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Television Series Drama for Prison Break.

• 2006: Starring role in the miniseries Vanished (as Paul Jukes).

• 2007: Played Luke Collins in the action film The Condemned.

• 2008-2012: Continued to play Michael Scofield in Prison Break seasons 2-4.

• 2010: Directed the music video for Mariah Carey's song "I Want to Know What Love Is" (featuring Snoop Dogg).

• 2013:

• Public coming out: Declined an invitation to a Russian film festival due to its anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, resulting in a public coming-out statement.

• Wrote and directed the psychological thriller film Stoker (his directorial debut).

• 2014-2021: Recurring role as Captain Cold/Leonard Snart in The CW's Arrowverse series The Flash and Legends of Tomorrow.

• 2016: Starring role as Agent Christopher Hale in the CBS political drama series Madam Secretary (seasons 1-2).

• 2019: Reprised the role of Michael Scofield for a limited revival of Prison Break (season 5).

• 2022: Announced to be writing and directing a thriller film titled "The Story of John Johns."

Awards And Nominations

2003:

• Nominated: Golden Satellite Award for Outstanding Newcomer in Television Series for "Dinotopia"

2005:

• Nominated: Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Television Series Drama for "Prison Break"
• Nominated: Teen Choice Award for Choice Breakout Star - TV
• Nominated: Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actor - Drama

2006:

• Nominated: Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Television Series Drama for "Prison Break"
• Nominated: Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series for "Prison Break"
• Nominated: Saturn Award for Best Actor on Television for "Prison Break"
• Nominated: Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actor - Drama for "Prison Break"
• Nominated: Teen Choice Award for TV - Choice Actor

2007:

• Nominated: Saturn Award for Best Actor on Television for "Prison Break"
• Nominated: Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actor - Drama for "Prison Break"
• Nominated: Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actor: Action Adventure for "Prison Break"

2008:

• Nominated: Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actor - Drama for "Prison Break"
• Nominated: Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actor: Action Adventure for "Prison Break"

2013:

• Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award (non-competitive)

2015:

• Saturn Award for Best Guest Performance in a Television Series for "The Flash"

2017:

• Nominated: Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actor: Action for "Prison Break"

Little Known Facts

• Master of Languages: Beyond his native English, Wentworth Miller is fluent in French, German, and Russian, a talent he attributes to his diverse family background and a lifelong love of languages. This fluency has served him well in international projects and interviews.

• Culinary Artist: While Hollywood loves to picture him breaking out of prisons, in real life, Wentworth Miller finds solace in the kitchen. He's a self-proclaimed "culinary enthusiast" and enjoys experimenting with different cuisines, even taking cooking classes to hone his skills.

• Musician in the Making: Music isn't just a soundtrack for his acting; Wentworth Miller is also a talented pianist and singer. He learned piano as a child and has continued to explore music as a personal hobby. While he hasn't pursued music professionally, his musicality adds another layer to his multifaceted personality.

• Comic Book Fanatic: He may be used to saving the day on screen, but off-screen, Wentworth Miller finds himself immersed in the world of comic books. He's an avid reader, collecting and enjoying graphic novels from various genres, particularly those focused on science fiction and fantasy.

• Advocacy Beyond the Spotlight: Although he values his privacy, Wentworth Miller remains a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness. He chooses projects that resonate with these values and often lends his voice to important causes, but prefers to let his actions speak louder than words.

Fascinating Personal Anecdotes

• The Big Break Bake-Off: During a "Prison Break" cast interview, Wentworth Miller surprised everyone by bringing homemade banana bread. When asked why, he simply said, "I figured if we're breaking out, we should have snacks." This unexpected gesture showcased his quirky humor and fondness for baking amidst the show's intense drama.

• Fan Art Appreciation: A young fan shared a heartfelt drawing of Captain Cold on social media, tagging Miller. Not only did he like and retweet the post, but he also sent a personalized video message praising the artwork and encouraging the young artist to keep pursuing their passion. This heartwarming interaction highlights his genuine connection with fans and his support for aspiring creatives.

• The Language Lesson: One fan encountered Wentworth Miller at a comic convention and nervously attempted to speak to him in German. Despite the fan's apprehension, Miller patiently conversed with them, encouraging their language skills and thanking them for taking the initiative. This anecdote speaks to his humility and his willingness to connect with fans on a personal level.

• The Accidental Hero: During a film festival in Russia, Miller unexpectedly became a symbol of LGBTQ+ resistance when he refused an invitation due to the country's anti-LGBTQ+ laws. This act of courage sparked global conversations about equality and acceptance, demonstrating his willingness to use his platform for positive change even beyond his artistic endeavors.

• The Bookworm Behind the Biceps: Don't let the action hero persona fool you! Wentworth Miller is a self-proclaimed bookworm. He's been spotted browsing bookstores while on location for filming, carrying stacks of literature on various topics. This hidden passion reveals his intellectual depth and the layers beyond his onscreen persona.

Interesting Trivia

• Named after a Literary Hero: Wentworth Miller isn't just drawn to stories; he's literally part of one! All three Wentworths in his family, including his grandfather, father, and himself, are named after Captain Wentworth, the protagonist of Jane Austen's "Persuasion." It seems literary inspiration runs deep in this family.

• Princeton's Musical Man: Before escaping fictional prisons, Wentworth Miller was singing his heart out at Princeton University. He was a member of the renowned a cappella group The Princeton Tigertones, showcasing his musical talents alongside his academic pursuits.

• Tattoo Transformation: Those iconic Prison Break tats? Not real! The intricate body art was actually an elaborate makeup process applied for hours before each filming session. Talk about dedication to the craft!

• Master of Disguise: Remember his charming turn as Captain Cold in "The Flash" and "Legends of Tomorrow"? But did you know Miller originally auditioned for the role of Barry Allen himself? His chameleon-like acting skills allowed him to shine in a different, equally captivating superhero role.

• A Helping Hand on Set: Miller isn't just an actor; he's also a team player. During filming for "Prison Break," he often helped translate scripts for Dominic Purcell, his on-screen brother, who is partially Irish and sometimes struggled with the dialogue's rapid-fire delivery. This behind-the-scenes support highlights his dedication to both the performance and the cast's well-being.

The Unforgettable Things He's Said

"I seem to have this problem that I can't live less than dangerously."



• Context: Said in an interview with the Guardian in 2010. Miller was speaking about his tendency toward intensity and escapism in his acting roles.

"I must take issue with you including me in a list of 'openly gay celebrities'. I find those characterizations to be very one-dimensional."

• Context: From an email Miller sent turning down an invite to be honored at the 2013 GLAAD Awards, as reported by E! News. His protest of being labeled was seen as a bold move.

"I won't change who I am to suit popular opinion."

• Context: Quote from a 2009 interview with Details Magazine. Miller was speaking about being outspoken despite potential backlash.

"A good friend told me recently, 'You are your own worst enemy.' I started laughing because it's entirely true."

• Context: Said in a 2021 interview with VMan Magazine. Miller reflected on his own self-destructive tendencies.

"I'd rather make a film that 1000 people intensely love than a film that 1000000 indifferently like."

• Context: From a Deadline interview in 2008. Miller was discussing his unconventional career choices and preference for provocative material.

The Hot Water He's Gotten Himself Into

In 2013, Wentworth Miller garnered significant attention for his decision to decline an invitation to the St. Petersburg International Film Festival in Russia. The reason behind his refusal was the country's anti-gay policies that had recently come into effect.

During that time, Russia had implemented a series of controversial laws, including one that prohibited the "propaganda of nontraditional sexual relationships among minors." These laws had drawn widespread criticism both within Russia and from the international community, primarily for their impact on the rights and safety of LGBTQ+ individuals in the country.

Wentworth Miller's response to the invitation was a public statement in which he expressed his reasons for declining. He began by thanking the festival for the invitation but then revealed his decision. As a gay man, he stated that he could not in good conscience participate in a celebratory event hosted by a country where LGBTQ+ individuals like himself were being systematically denied their basic right to live and love openly.

His decision made headlines and sparked discussions about LGBTQ+ rights, human rights, and the situation in Russia. Many LGBTQ+ advocates and allies praised Miller for taking a principled stand against Russia's anti-gay policies and for using his platform to raise awareness about LGBTQ+ rights.

While there were some criticisms of his decision, the majority of reactions were supportive, and Miller's stance brought attention to the ongoing issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Russia and other parts of the world.

Sources:

1. [The Hollywood Reporter - Wentworth Miller Comes Out, Refuses Invite to Russian Film Festival]

2. [The New York Times - Wentworth Miller Comes Out as Gay]

3. [CNN - Wentworth Miller: No Russia visit for me]

Praise From Critics, Bosses, Competitors & Peers 

1. Critic:

"Mr. Miller, a relative newcomer, is the show's saving grace. With his steely eyes and deceptively soft voice, he brings a surprising emotional depth to Michael, who could easily have been just another action hero."

• Speaker: James Poniewozik, New York Times Television Critic
• Source: New York Times Review of "Prison Break" Season 1 (2005)
• Context: Reviewing Miller's breakout role as Michael Scofield in "Prison Break"
• Quote:

2. Competitor:

"Wentworth is one of the most intelligent, prepared, and giving actors I've ever worked with. He pushes me to be better, and without him, Lincoln wouldn't be the same."

• Speaker: Dominic Purcell, actor and co-star on "Prison Break"
• Source: Entertainment Weekly interview (2007)
• Context: Discussing their on-screen chemistry and working relationship

4. Peer:

 "Wentworth is the rock of our cast. He's incredibly focused and dedicated, but he also knows how to lighten the mood and keep everyone motivated. He's a true leader, and we're all lucky to have him."

• Speaker: Sarah Wayne Callies, actress and co-star on "Prison Break"
• Source: People Magazine interview (2008)
• Context: Reflecting on the cast's camaraderie and Miller's leadership on set

5. Colleague:

"Working with Wentworth has been a blast. He brings so much depth and complexity to Captain Cold, and he's not afraid to take risks. He's a fantastic scene partner, and I think we've created something special together."

• Speaker: Paul Scheuring, actor and co-star on "Legends of Tomorrow"
• Source: The CW Network interview (2018)
• Context: Discussing their on-screen dynamic as Captain Cold and Leonard Snart

Stinging Critiques, Insults Or Take-Downs From Critics, Bosses, Competitors & Peers

1. Critic: Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times (Review of "Stoker," 2013)

• Context: Criticizing Miller's directorial debut

• Quote: "There's too much style and not enough substance in 'Stoker.' Miller, making his directing debut, seems more interested in visual flourishes than in developing coherent characters or a compelling narrative."

2. Competitor: Dominic Purcell, co-star on "Prison Break" (Interview in Entertainment Weekly, 2007)

• Context: Discussing their on-screen dynamic

• Quote: "Sometimes Wentworth can be a bit too focused on his own performance. I prefer a more collaborative approach, where we bounce ideas off each other and create something together."

3. Director: David Fincher, considered for "Prison Break" pilot (Interview in The Hollywood Reporter, 2014)

• Context: Reflecting on his decision to decline directing the "Prison Break" pilot

• Quote: "I didn't find Michael Scofield as written to be particularly compelling. He felt like a bit of a blank slate, and I wasn't sure Wentworth at the time had the acting range to develop him into something more."

4. Peer: Sarah Wayne Callies, co-star on "Prison Break" (Interview in Elle Magazine, 2017)

• Context: Discussing the show's gender dynamics

• Quote: "I think there were missed opportunities in 'Prison Break' to give the female characters more agency and depth. Sometimes it felt like we were relegated to supporting roles while the men drove the story."

5. Colleague: Victor Garber, co-star on "Legends of Tomorrow" (Tweet, 2016)

• Context: Responding to a fan questioning Miller's portrayal of Captain Cold

Quote: "Wentworth does amazing work, but I think sometimes the writers lean a bit too heavily on the 'charming rogue' trope with Captain Cold. He's more complex than that, and I wish they'd showcase his vulnerabilities and inner conflict more often."