Rainn Wilson, best known as the quirky Dwight Schrute from “The Office,” is considering a very different role off-screen. Appearing on Late Night With Seth Meyers on Wednesday, the 59-year-old actor revealed he may step away from acting to pursue work as a death doula.
(Photo by Valerie Macon/Getty Images)“Well, as my celebrity star is fading — and it’s fine — I may put acting behind me,” Wilson told Meyers. “And there’s this beautiful occupation called death doula.”
Explaining What a Death Doula Does
Wilson, who frequently discusses spirituality on his Soul Boom podcast, explained that a death doula plays a role similar to a birth doula, offering support and guidance through a different transition.
“It’s a different kind of birth, right?” he said. “It’s a birth into the next phase of our existence, because I fully believe in the continuation and journey of the human soul beyond the material realm. And most world faiths agree.”
He added that the role helps families celebrate life and create meaning during what can otherwise be a frightening and overlooked part of the human journey.
Bringing Hope, Healing & Dignity
The actor emphasized that death doulas can help reduce fear and bring dignity to the process of dying. “To be there to usher someone with beauty and respect and dignity from this life to the next, to help the family transition, to understand what kind of legacy you want to have, how you want to celebrate what is kind of a painful transition that is often ignored in Western society,” Wilson explained.
Watch the clip here:
Meyers agreed that the presence of a death doula could make death feel less intimidating, suggesting it could create a more calming experience. Wilson added that the role allows for “meditation” and “contemplation,” creating a healing space for families to grieve and remember.
A Career Beyond Dwight Schrute
Though Wilson is most recognized for his role as Dwight Schrute in the U.S. version of “The Office,” his career has stretched across decades with standout parts in films like “Almost Famous,” “Juno,” and “The Rocker,” as well as television shows such as “Lessons in Chemistry,” “Dark Winds,” and “Utopia.”
As the conversation wrapped, Meyers told him, “I don’t want you to stop one just to work on the other, but I think you’d be very good at both.” Wilson replied with a smile, “Well, thank you so much.”
For now, fans can watch him share his thoughts on this possible new path in the clip from Late Night With Seth Meyers.
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