all of those assumptions. During some of his most famous performances, he was anxious, drinking heavily, and uncertain about the attention surrounding him.
None of this means that every successful moment from his youth should be reinterpreted as secretly tragic. McCarthy enjoyed extraordinary professional opportunities and created films that continue to matter to audiences. He has also recalled humorous, exciting, and memorable experiences from that period. A truthful account can acknowledge both sides at once. Fame provided remarkable opportunities while failing to protect him from personal difficulties. The presence of
