Home / Arts and Entertainment / Veteran Actor Chris Sarandon Reflects on Storied Career Highs and Lows
Veteran Actor Chris Sarandon Reflects on Storied Career Highs and Lows
27 Sep, 2025
Summary
- Chris Sarandon, 83, known for roles in cult classics like The Princess Bride
- Candidly discusses nearly quitting acting after a "malevolent" director on 1977 film The Sentinel
- Now focuses on personal passions like gardening and hosting a food-themed podcast

Veteran actor Chris Sarandon, best known for his roles in cult classics like The Princess Bride and The Nightmare Before Christmas, is now finding a new rhythm in retirement. In a recent interview, the 83-year-old actor candidly reflected on the highs and lows of his storied career.
One of the most startling revelations was Sarandon's experience filming the 1977 horror movie The Sentinel, which he says nearly drove him to quit acting altogether. Sarandon described the film's director, the late Michael Winner, as "unpleasant" and "malevolent" on set. While Sarandon often gravitated toward villainous roles, the horror film ultimately failed to resonate with audiences.
Despite the setback, Sarandon went on to find success in the horror genre, starring in cult classics like Fright Night and Child's Play. He also delivered a memorable performance as the villainous Prince Humperdinck in The Princess Bride, creating a character who was both cruel and charismatic.
Now, decades later, Sarandon appears content having stepped away from Hollywood. He has turned his attention to more personal passions, including hosting a podcast called Cooking By Heart, where he invites guests to reflect on how food has shaped their lives. Sarandon also enjoys tending to his large garden at his Connecticut home, which he shares with his third wife, actress Joanna Gleason.