One part copy (any genre)

One solid character (whether animation or broadcast type)

A true understanding of the scene you are playing

Then mix these ingredients together until they are smooth and then take it for a twist.

Playing it safe is easy to do and most of us do it. We create a character, we do some homework on the copy/audition and then we perform. However 9 out of 10 performers play it safe trying to get it just perfect.