Spencer Tracy

Film & Theater USA 1900 – 1967 100 quotes

Stoic everyman in Captains Courageous, Tracy's understated power conveyed quotable integrity.

Quotes by Spencer Tracy

I believe in hard work and clean living.

Speech excerpt

The camera never lies, but it sure can exaggerate.

Professional observation 1945

Family is everything; the rest is just noise.

Letter 1952

Acting isn't about being someone else; it's about being more yourself.

Interview

I've had a good run; wouldn't trade it for anything.

Personal reflection 1965

Directors are like generals; actors are the foot soldiers.

Witty remark 1938

Faith keeps me going when the lights go out.

Interview

Never trust a man who doesn't drink; he's probably hiding something.

Comeback 1942

The theater taught me discipline; films taught me freedom.

Speech excerpt

Regret is a waste of time; learn and move on.

Personal reflection 1958

I don't chase awards; they find you if you're good.

Interview

Love is the hardest role to play convincingly.

Letter 1949

Silence is the best response to stupidity.

Witty remark

Every role is a chance to grow.

Professional observation 1930

Happiness is a good script and a better director.

Interview 1953

I owe my career to persistence, not genius.

Speech excerpt

The human spirit is unbreakable if you believe.

Personal reflection 1962

Critics? They're just disappointed playwrights.

Comeback

Acting is reacting; the rest is vanity.

Interview 1941

Life's a stage, but don't forget the audience.

Aphorism