After 35 years in professional wrestling, a successful rock music career with Fozzy, and an expanding filmography, one might expect Chris Jericho to rest on his laurels. Instead, the 55-year-old revealed in a Soundsphere Magazine interview that contentment has never been his goal.
I think I’m happy. I’m also always pushing myself. So I’m never—I’m happy, but I’m never satisfied, I think, is the best way of putting it because I always want to do more,” Jericho explained when asked about his current state of mind.
This philosophy has led Jericho to accomplish feats few entertainers ever achieve. He became a nine-time world wrestling champion, fronted a band that scored a gold-certified album, appeared in the Terrifier horror franchise, and recently landed roles in network television.
Chris Jericho fancies himself a Renaissance man
When asked if he considers himself an entrepreneur, Jericho offered a different self-assessment altogether.
I don’t know if I ever see myself as an entrepreneur, but I see myself as kind of a renaissance man a little bit. I think Bruce Dickinson is a polymath, which means you do many, many things. Kind of a polymath, I guess you’d say,” he reflected.
Jericho’s relentless drive extends to his performance philosophy as well. Whether in a wrestling ring or on a concert stage, connecting with the audience remains paramount.
You do learn how to control an audience. It’s very important because when you show up in the ring or on stage, you want people to react. You want them to have a great time. If you can connect with the crowd, you’ll always have a gig,” he explained.
Chris Jericho’s new horror movie
Despite his celebrity status, Jericho made clear that success in one field doesn’t automatically translate to another. His upcoming horror film “Dark Match” and his CBS “Tracker” appearance both required him to audition and earn the roles through traditional channels.
Chris Jericho’s advice for performers
Perhaps most telling is Jericho’s advice for avoiding complacency as a performer. “You don’t want dead air. That’s the worst thing you could have is people not reacting at all. So yeah, you really got to be a party host and make sure you connect with the crowd,” he stated.
As speculation continues about his wrestling future, Jericho’s polymath approach suggests whatever comes next will be just another chapter in an ever-expanding career. For him, satisfaction only fuels the hunger for the next challenge.
