Jason Isaacs Felt Threatened by Michael Bay on 'Armageddon' Set

Actor Jason Isaacs reflected on his anxiety-filled first day filming the 1998 blockbuster 'Armageddon,' recalling how director Michael Bay questioned his performance, asking if it was due to 'theatre training.' Isaacs, who played scientist Dr. Ronald Quincy, feared he might be fired for his theatrical delivery, but Bay later assured him the performance was 'awesome.' The director even ensured the movie's star, Bruce Willis, saw Isaacs' scene and expanded his role beyond the original eight days. Isaacs humorously described the surreal experience of portraying 'the smartest man on the planet' while holding a papier-mâché asteroid, questioning his acting career at the time. Despite his initial doubts, Isaacs' role became memorable as 'Armageddon' achieved massive box-office success. The film is known for its ensemble cast and its outlandish plot involving oil drillers sent to avert an asteroid collision with Earth.