What happens when you walk away from a career you spent years building to pursue something you can’t ignore?

On this episode of Next Act with Jeff Ornstein, Jeff sits down with actor, producer, screenwriter and director Darwin Shaw to explore his remarkable journey from medicine to the stage and screen.

Darwin shares how discovering acting changed the direction of his life, landing his breakout role in Casino Royale, and building a career that has taken him from major productions to deeply personal independent films.

They also discuss the story behind the Academy Award-nominated short film The Last Ranger, Darwin’s move into writing, producing and directing, and why he believes great storytelling starts with empathy.

Darwin also offers a candid perspective for anyone considering their own next act: success isn’t enough to sustain a creative career. You have to genuinely love the work.

It’s a conversation about taking risks, finding your voice, creating work that matters, and having the courage to follow the path that makes you feel most alive.