Does John Lithgow Play Piano?

John Lithgow is a name that resonates with many fans across generations. Whether you know him as the eccentric alien from 3rd Rock from the Sun, the terrifying villain from Cliffhanger, or the wise father figure from Interstellar, there’s no doubt that Lithgow is one of the most versatile performers in Hollywood. But beyond acting, he has also dabbled in music, poetry, and children’s entertainment.

This leads to the question: Does John Lithgow play the piano?

John Lithgow’s Musical Side

Many fans might assume that Lithgow, with his rich artistic background, is also an accomplished pianist. After all, he has released albums of children’s music, performed on Broadway, and even taken on roles where his characters play the piano. However, in reality, the actor himself has openly admitted that he is not a trained pianist.

In an interview with AARP, Lithgow confessed, “I can’t read music or play the piano.” This might come as a surprise, especially considering his extensive involvement in music and performance. However, he did mention that he can play “a mediocre guitar,” which means he has some musical ability but does not consider himself a pianist.

Acting vs. Reality: When Lithgow Played the Piano On-Screen

While Lithgow might not play the piano in real life, he has convincingly portrayed characters who do. One notable example is in Rise of the Planet of the Apes, where he plays Charles Rodman, a man suffering from Alzheimer’s disease who, at one point, is seen playing the piano. His performance in that scene was so believable that many viewers assumed he was actually playing.

This showcases Lithgow’s incredible acting skills. Even if he doesn’t personally possess a talent for the piano, he has the ability to make audiences believe that he does—a true testament to his craft.

A Musician in His Own Right

Although Lithgow may not be a pianist, he is still a musician in many ways. He has released multiple albums of children’s music, blending storytelling and song to create engaging content for young audiences. His albums, such as Singin’ in the Bathtub and Farkle and Friends, have been well received, showcasing his ability to entertain beyond the screen and stage.

Additionally, Lithgow has performed musical theater on Broadway, where he has had to engage with music and rhythm on a professional level. His ability to embrace different artistic expressions makes him a well-rounded performer, even if he doesn't personally play the piano.

Why People Assume Lithgow Can Play the Piano

There are a few reasons why fans often assume that Lithgow is a pianist:

His On-Screen Roles – As mentioned earlier, he has played characters who perform on the piano, making it easy to believe that he can actually play.

His Musical Background – His work in children’s music and Broadway performances lead many to believe he must be proficient in musical instruments.

His Overall Talent – Lithgow has excelled in so many areas that it’s natural to assume he would also master the piano.

However, as Lithgow himself has confirmed, while he has a love for music, he is not a pianist.

Conclusion: A Multi-Talented Star with Many Gifts

John Lithgow may not play the piano, but that does not diminish his incredible artistic contributions. Whether through acting, singing, storytelling, or writing, he continues to captivate audiences with his immense talent. His ability to convincingly portray a pianist on screen is just another example of his remarkable versatility.

So, while he may not be the next great concert pianist, John Lithgow remains a true entertainer in every sense of the word. And in the end, isn’t that what really matters?