Jeff Bridges: After his Oscar win, the actor -- and Dude -- abide

As in charge as Mo'Nique was backstage, best actor Oscar winner Jeff Bridges was just that laid-back. Present, alert but definitely the essence of the Dude -- even in talking about his career.

"Well, you know, [it's been] up and downs, strikes and gutters, man," Bridges said, carrying Champagne rather than a White Russian. "That's about it."

But now that he's officially an achiever, Bridges revealed the secret of his success: his wife. "She holds that kite string that lets me go -- woo -- way out there. And I love coming home. She pointed out the other day we've been apart 11 of the last 14 months, so I was -- woo -- really far out there.

"But my wife and my girls -- I guess the girls are the tail on the kite that kind of keeps me centered like that. My girls, my darlings."

As grounded as Bridges seems, he said he was able to identify with his "Crazy Heart" character, Bad Blake, most in terms of music. "I've been writing and playing music since I was a kid, and I'm sure that's what happened to Bad."

So does that mean we'll be seeing more music from the actor?

"I don't know about forming a country band; it sounds like a good idea, maybe," said Bridges.

Later, when asked what he would do with his "newfound power" after winning, he said: "Yeah, that's uh ... certainly, the music. That's gonna bloom for me. That's something I've been doing for a long time, and this is going to help me continue that.

"But there's upsides and downsides of fame -- downsides, you lose some of your anonymity, and for an actor that's kind of tough. But the upside is that hopefully this award will help bring peace and understanding and prosperity to our world. No, really, movies are more than just entertainment. They're connecting us. And music is the same way."

And at the very least?

"I hope a lot of people are going to see 'Crazy Heart' because of this."

-- Scott Sandell and Amy Kaufman

Photo: Jeff Bridges appears to be contemplating the Oscar as he and wife Sue arrive at the 82nd annual Academy Awards at the Kodak Theatre on Sunday. Credit: Al Seib / Los Angeles Times. 

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Comments

[Lynda Alhussiny]

Congratulations Jeff Bridges!!! I worked on Crazy Heart as an extra at a restaraunt in Albuquerque. WOW what a thrill an honor to have shared the screen with you, even for just a few seconds. Jeff you are solid and highly deserving! Lynda Alhussiny

[Dave]

Yeah Jeff Bridges, Congratulations!

I enjoyed working with your Dad a few years ago,
and always enjoy your movies. You should have
won an Oscar 29 years ago for the "Last Picture Show",
but did Jeff become bitter?
I saw Jeff recently on TV as he came through the airport.
Dozens of fans pestered him for autographs and photos.
Jeff Bridges was gracious throughout and never lost his smile.
Certainly, the Dude still abides. Way to go, Jeff!
Dave Silva

[J.P. Craig]

Congrats Jeff on your Oscar triumph. It's long overdue but you finally made it. Your mother and father are looking down on you with tremendous feelings of pride. You're a great actor, and Hollywood is a better place because of your talents.

[James Kriss]

Dear Jeff. It's a small world and I have been following your career. I was born 12/9/49-close to your birthday. I also shared a Coast Guard Cutter under the reserve program when we were stationed in Alameda. Both our parents thought it would be a good idea to get into this during that time period. My wife also has a son that is a seargent for the LAPD and he was the first to arrive to your parents house when your dad passed on a long time ago. I just wanted to say even though late how sorry I was to hear about him. Congratulations on your Oscar and best of health to you and your family.

[Don Marshall]

Congratulations, the family and I saw Crazy Heart and loved it! I have been a Jeff Bridges fan for years and after The Big Lebowski it got personal. It seems I bear a resemblance to "The Dude" and also am fond of White Russians. I always am having drinks bought for me and being told, "You know who you remind me of"? So I was really rooting for Jeff to win this, Big Love to You Man and Bless your family...

[Jack C NYC]

Thank the Dude.

[BillyBurke]

The Dude Abides...

[Lynn]

You'll always be MY Starman!
Now it appears your EVERYONEs!
Thank you for so many WONDERFUL entertainment memories!