Actor Hugh Jackman talks about the role that changed his career and made him a movie star. When the first X-Men movie was released two decades ago, Hugh became a household name for playing the fictional Marvel Comics character Wolverine. However, the actor now reveals that he’s not like the mutant superhero fans seem to associate him with in most cases. “I think it’s important for me to be pushed into areas where I don’t know if I can do it,” he said. “I’ve never felt safe as an actor.” (Also Read: Hugh Jackman Will Return As Wolverine For Deadpool 3, Ryan Reynolds Confirms In Hilarious Announce Video)
“When I was getting into this business, the playbook for being a movie star had to be mysterious,” the 53-year-old Oscar nominee said in a recent interview with IndieWire. “Don’t let anyone in. Leave them wanting more. Don’t reveal things. Project a certain image. Hugh further added that over the years this concept has evolved: “Now I think that someone like me has a responsibility to discuss the fear of speaking openly about vulnerability,” he said. “Obviously I’d rather go through what everyone else goes through than project an idealized version of myself. I’m trying to do it more publicly.”
Meanwhile, with the news that Hugh Jackman will take on Ryan Reynolds in Deadpool 3 to reprise his X-Men character, the actor is also under pressure to live up to fans’ expectations. Hugh admits he feels closest to Peter Miller’s character in his upcoming outing, The Son, a divorced father trying to put his life back together while caring for his distraught son. “This role brought out the mistakes I’ve made and the regrets I have,” said Hugh. “I think one of the great messages of the film is that love is not always enough. When you raise a child with a little more humility and understanding, you probably come out looking fresher. Understand your upbringing and predilections as a parent.
Directed by Florian Zeller, who won an Academy Award for co-writing The Father in 2020, The Son also stars Laura Dern, Vanessa Kirby and Zen McGrath. Sony Pictures will release the film in select theaters on November 25.
