The announcement that Sebastian Stan will be portraying a young Donald Trump in the upcoming biopic “The Apprentice” has stirred a whirlwind of reactions on social media. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, the Ali Abbasi-directed film delves into Trump’s real estate ascent in 1970s and 1980s New York, exploring themes of power, corruption, and deception as the foundation of an American dynasty takes shape.
Joining Stan in this star-studded ensemble are Maria Bakalova, portraying Ivana Trump, and Jeremy Strong, known for his Emmy-winning role in HBO’s “Succession,” as Trump’s lawyer and mentor Roy Cohn. The script, penned by Gabriel Sherman, draws inspiration from Sherman’s biography of Fox News founder Roger Ailes, titled “The Loudest Voice in the Room.”‘
With principal photography commencing this week, social media erupted with varied opinions on Stan’s casting as a younger Trump. Some critics questioned the casting choice, while others highlighted Stan’s commitment to roles, citing his Emmy-nominated performance as Mötley Crüe rocker Tommy Lee in the Hulu miniseries “Pam & Tommy.”
Notably, the film has garnered attention for its detailed casting, including Patrick Schwarzenegger expressing enthusiasm for Stan’s involvement. On the flip side, some social media users proposed alternative actors for the role, with humorous suggestions like Owen Wilson.
Despite mixed reactions, Stan’s previous performances, such as his portrayal of a psychopath in the thriller “Fresh,” have earned him acclaim for his commitment and unique choices in character development. Director Mimi Cave shared how Stan’s dedication, demonstrated by a video of him dancing with a steak knife, convinced her to cast him in the role.
As anticipation builds for “The Apprentice,” slated for release with an unannounced date, it remains to be seen how Stan will bring to life the early chapters of Donald Trump’s journey, adding another layer to his diverse acting portfolio. Newsweek has reached out to Donald Trump’s representatives for comment, and the industry eagerly awaits the unveiling of this intriguing cinematic exploration.
