Donovan Wants Some Relief from ‘Burn Notice’
It’s been a case of burnout for “Burn Notice” star Jeffrey Donovan. He admits the grueling work pace of his hit USA Network series has left him feeling so exhausted that changes must be made. “We start production of Season 4 in March, and they’re going to try to diminish my presence in the show. It’s been 95 percent. They’re going to try to get it down to 80 percent,” reports the affable star.
The action comedy-drama, in which he plays disenfranchised government spy Michael Westen, returns for the second half of its third season Jan. 21, with an episode that has his series mom, Sharon Gless, working with her former “Cagney & Lacey” cohort, Tyne Daly.
With all of Season 3 in the can, Donovan says, “I worked the last two hiatuses, and I was worn out. So instead of going after jobs this hiatus, I’m starting to develop projects myself, working with writers.”
Donovan also spent some hiatus time “visiting troops in Iraq with Bruce,” he says, referring to cast mate Bruce Campbell. “It was an amazing experience, meeting these soldiers. On the way back, we visited Walter Reed (Army hospital), talked to soldiers who’d been injured, who’d lost limbs — it was just heartbreaking, absolutely heartbreaking. It took every bit of strength I had not to lose it. Not because I felt sorry for them, but because of their courage. One thing they all said was that they felt bad they weren’t back there helping their friends.”
As far as what’s coming up on the show, Donovan says that “Burn Notice” fans can expect lots of big changes. As far as complaints: “The ratings are great and I know the network is very happy — but the show doesn’t get the accolades it should. I’m not talking about my performance at all,” he insists, “but the writing on the show. The writers do such an amazing job. And I think Sharon should get every award for her work.”
Source: Hollywood Exclusive by Marilyn Beck and Stacy Jenel Smith
Love love love this show, it’s one of the best, especially since it’s filmed in Miami! He should get some rest, just hope Jeffrey having less scenes won’t ‘dimish’ the show. When you have a great thing going, don’t ruin it. Get some sleep, and hop back on!!
I love this show! Fiona is awesome, entertaining such a great fit as Michael’s girlfriend. Sharon Gless makes me look forward to growing older. She is the coolest retiree and tough enough to stand up in the mix. JD (Michael) is the greatest, I love his naratives the how to’s of being the best spy. His ability to adapt his personality to fit “the job” is unbeatable. I agree some Michael Weston is better than none. Thank you for doing this show!
Life is nothing but the 80/20 rule!
Jeffrey and Bruce went to Iraq. Any photos or video? It would be great to see these and I’m sure the families of the soldiers you both meet with would be appreciated. Congrats on the 4th season renewal and I will cross my fingers that the show will continue to 100+ episodes for syndication. Great job to cast and crew and good luck to all of you.
Considering the focus of the show so far has been on the character of Michael Westen, it almost seems like there would be no show without Jeffrey. If he wants out, maybe they should bring it to a close?
Jeffrey Donovan is the best part of Burn Notice. i would hate for the show to come to an end, so cutting down on his time is better than not having him at all. You are loved and would be missed.
Great for us! 4th season!!! I can’t wait to watch next episode of 3rd season on January 21.
I agree Belle, this is one of the best shows on TV right now and its because of the awesome combination of excellent writing and having wonderful actors to pull it off; Jeffery, Bruce, Gabrielle and Sharon. My husband and I look forward to the return of the show like a visit from old friends.
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Keep up the good work everyone! With a show this great, the accolades will come!
Thanks for posting!
I hope Jeffrey’s decreased presence on the show will benefit him. I would rather have some “Michael Westen” than none at all.
I have to agree that the writing is amazing. I know Burn Notice has gotten some recognition, but I hope it gets more. IMHO this show is one of the best shows, not just on cable, but all of TV.
I feel ” so ” sad for him. Next time he feels tired he can just check his bank account. That should provide some energy.