Richard Dreyfuss, who stars as Bernie Madoff in the ABC Original Movie Event, Madoff, starting FEBRUARY 3 at 8|7c on ABC stopped by Jimmy Kimmel Live to discuss what is probably the most controversial role of his career. 

Madoff is based on the real-life story of the former investment advisor who purposely schemed his way into personal fortune and glory at the expense of his trusting clients, who ended up saddled with the brutal consequences of Madoff's betrayal. 

The movie captures the rise and fall of the man responsible for the greatest and most elaborate cons in American financial history, as well as the pain and suffering instituted on his family, associates, and investors. You can check out two sneak peeks of Dreyfuss in action as Bernie to get a taste of what you have to look forward to. 

Dreyfuss didn’t hold back during the interview with Jimmy Kimmel as he explained what it was like to play a character that he described as a "socio-pathological, cripplingly sick, psychotic man" who was quite convinced that he would never get caught.

 

Dreyfuss also offered his own explanation for Madoff’s uncanny narcissism as only a stage actor could – by comparing the disgraced moneyman to Shakespeare’s famously tragic antagonist – Iago from Othello, who unapologetically embraces his evil nature.

As if that wasn’t enough to convince viewers to tune in, Dreyfuss shares a scene in the movie that plays out during the tragic events of 9/11, when Madoff, in the midst of all the chaos, eerily declares, "This is how it all ends, everybody dies and I get away with it."

Sounds like Richard Dreyfuss really did his research! Don't forget to tune in to Madoff which starts tonight, and continues tomorrow FEBRUARY 4 at 8|7c.

In the meantime, check out the Madoff trailer!