"And I'd watch George C. Scott from backstage. He was one of my mentors"

Jeffrey Tambor is revealing affection for George C. Scott, who was one of his coaches. It is clear that Tambor admired Scott and learned from him. Tambor likely viewed Scott from backstage, observing his performance and keeping in mind on how to enhance his own performing. Tambor likely found Scott's performances motivating and had the ability to learn from him in order to become a much better actor. Tambor's appreciation for Scott is evident in his quote, and it is clear that Scott had a long lasting effect on Tambor's profession. Tambor likely still looks back fondly on the time he invested seeing Scott from backstage and the lessons he learned from him.