Austin Butleris theman of the hour.
On Monday night, the 27-year-old actor — who was just cast as Elvis Presley for a new biopic about the legendary singer — walked the red carpet with long-time girlfriend,Vanessa Hudgens,for the premiere ofOnce Upon a Time in Hollywood.The young actor stars oppositeBrad PittandLeonardo DiCaprioin the anticipated Quentin Tarantino film.
During the event, Butler spoke withEntertainmentTonightabout his upcoming role, already dressed for the part in a crisp black ensemble and tousled black hair.
“I am just profoundly honored that Baz has invited me on this journey with him,” he told the outlet. “It’s an extraordinary privilege. And I just feel so blessed to be working with such singular directors like him and Quentin Tarantino.”
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The famedMoulin Rouge!director announced his decision on July 15, after having narrowed down his list to include Butler, Harry Styles, Ansel Elgort, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Miles Teller, per reports. All five of them are said to have tested in late June for the role.
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“I knew I couldn’t make this film if the casting wasn’t absolutely right, and we searched thoroughly for an actor with the ability to evoke the singular natural movement and vocal qualities of this peerless star, but also the inner vulnerability of the artist,” Luhrmann said in a statement provided toThe Hollywood Reporter.
“Throughout the casting process, it was an honor for me to encounter such a vast array of talent,” he continued. “I had heard about Austin Butler from his standout role opposite Denzel Washington inThe Iceman Comethon Broadway, and through a journey of extensive screen testing and music and performance workshops, I knew unequivocally that I had found someone who could embody the spirit of one of the world’s most iconic musical figures.”
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Prior to reportedly testing the actors,Luhrmann sent out a public casting noticefor the part, asking anyone interested in the role to send photos to elviscasting2020@gmail.com.
The movie begins shooting next year in Australia.
source: people.com
