Paul Newman once described his performance in The Long, Hot Summer as his worst project from the 1950s. This take differs from the public love the picture still receives today. His home in CT with Joanne Woodward featured an unpretentious luxury that was remarked upon by workers. The couple chose a humble style despite their fame and status. Director Mike Nichols offered a rare dissenting view on Newman's acting. Nichols stated that the actor was decent but not amazing. This remark stays one of the rare instances where peers questioned his skills. These facts show a man who dismissed his own hit and faced tough criticism. The story covers his self-deprecation and the diverse opinions people held of his craft.