Is Michael Sheen Leaving Hollywood For Political Activism? ‘Masters Of Sex’ Actor Talks Politics In Tumblr Posts

With Showtime canceling “Masters Of Sex,” Michael Sheen’s schedule has been freed up. The actor, who played Dr. William “Bill” Masters in the drama series, has always had an interest in politics and political activism. Does this mean he is quitting Hollywood to focus on certain issues at home?

In an interview with The Times, Sheen reportedly told the interviewer that he plans to work less as an actor and possibly stop for the time being in order to become a political activist. Reports of him retiring from the film and TV industry started surfacing after it was learned that he moved from Los Angeles to Wales. Additionally, The Times reported that Sheen is uncertain if his relationship with comedian Sarah Silverman, who lives in Los Angeles, will survive the move.

However, on Sunday, the 47-year-old star took to Twitter and Tumblr to clarify his comments in the interview. In a tweet, the Welsh actor said that he is thinking of acting less. In a Tumblr post, the “Frost/Nixon” actor said, “I did one interview with The Times of London a few weeks ago, parts of which (including a headline that is not a quote) have been picked up by a lot of other outlets. I DID NOT declare that I’m ‘quitting acting and leaving Hollywood’ to go into politics.”

Sheen explained, “In the actual original interview I said I have become more involved with community issues back at home over the last few years and because of the political situation it’s something I would like to focus on more. The interviewer asked me what that meant for my career and I said it might mean I work less as an actor and maybe even stop for a while AT SOME POINT. But I don’t really know yet.”

Sheen specified that he wants to stop certain anti-democratic forces. “What I think must be resisted is the re-emerging spectre of fascism in the West,” he penned, “Our democracy must be defended and each of us needs to decide how we can contribute to that effort.”

In another Tumblr post, the “Underworld” star said, “Like so many people, I’m worried about the effects on our civilisation of what appears to be an increasing emergence of forces and instincts across Europe and the West with anti-democratic, deeply authoritarian and worryingly demagogic elements. Whether they come from the left or the right of the political spectrum. Whether they were part of voting For or Against Brexit. For or Against Trump. Or any other of the votes or referendums that are going on.”

Sheen will be seen in a new movie “Passengers” that is releasing on Dec. 21 and has two other films lined up that will be released soon – “Home Again” and “Brad’s Status.” However, both these movies are in the post-production phase. Hence, he has a less busy schedule to look forward to next year.