Sebastian Stan, ‘Apprentice’ Star and Future Portrayer of Former President, Believes Everyone has a Bit of Trump in Them – Here’s Why
Sebastian Stan, who will play Donald Trump in Ali Abbasi’s upcoming film Apprentice, expressed his support for the controversial former President. During an interview with Entertainment Weekly, the actor stated, “I believe that there’s a Trump in all of us in some way.”
He acknowledged that this opinion may not be popular and that people might hesitate to admit it, but he provided reasoning behind his assertion.
Apprentice chronicles the journey of a young Trump’s ascent to political power under the guidance of his mentor, the notorious Roy Cohn, portrayed by Jeremy Strong. Delving into the depths of these men’s personalities was a revelation for the actors and creators and is something they hope the audience will also take away.
“It’s crucial for us to explore the potentially darker aspects that exist within each of us,” Stan explained. Bringing these elements to light and embracing them rather than suppressing them could illuminate one’s character. “I believe that’s where the value lies because I don’t think anyone is morally superior,” the actor elaborated.
The Pam and Tommy star aims to impart one of Trump’s traits: his relentless drive to succeed despite all obstacles. “I recognized that determination to rise, to triumph at any cost, and to achieve victory. I grasped that concept based on my own very modest beginnings with the American dream,” Stan shared, finding this sentiment relatable.
While the story may be multi-faceted, the subject matter remains contentious. Many critics have opposed the film, and numerous Trump supporters have claimed that the depiction of the former President is highly exaggerated and detached from reality. However, the film’s director, Abbasi, believes it has the potential to reconnect individuals with their own humanity. “They view him as either a deity’s offspring or a manifestation of evil, and I think we need to bring him back to reality in order to foster understanding,” he added.
Apprentice is scheduled to premiere in theaters on October 17.