Acclaimed actor Sebastian Stan has shared his intense journey in preparing to portray Donald Trump in the upcoming film The Apprentice, directed by Ali Abbasi. Speaking at The Hollywood Reporter’s Actors Roundtable, Stan revealed the emotional and physical challenges he faced while taking on the complex role.
Stan candidly discussed the pressures of the role, including panic attacks, prosthetics failures, and a surprising revelation from Abbasi. “Two weeks out, the director goes, ‘Originally, I was going to cast a woman to play Trump,’” Stan recounted, emphasizing the unexpected obstacles he overcame.
Drawing from his personal experience as a Romanian immigrant, Stan explored the nuances of Trump’s controversial persona. “I’ve been trying to figure out the American dream since I arrived here at 12,” he shared. “When you peel back the layers, you get to the core of a powerless child enacting a vendetta.”
Fellow actor Colman Domingo praised Stan’s performance, noting his ability to transcend judgment. “He’s taken away any opinion about Trump and instead done the soul work,” said Domingo.
Directed by Abbasi, The Apprentice promises a bold, unflinching portrayal of Trump’s life, with Stan’s fearless performance at its heart. The film aims to delve into Trump’s psyche and provoke thoughtful reflection on power, identity, and the American dream.
The Apprentice is set to captivate audiences with its daring exploration of one of the most polarizing figures in modern history.
