The Untold Truth Of Rupert Friend
Lifestyle - News
By TANVI AKHAURI
This story contains discussions of sexual assault and physical abuse of a child.
CONTENT WARNING
NO ACTING DREAMS
Rupert Friend of "Anatomy of a Scandal" did not always dream of becoming an actor, but he “had a realization of not wanting to do one thing solely for the rest of my life." Acting would give him the opportunity to take on many different roles, and it seemed like the right fit for him.
dislikes a role he played
In "Anatomy of a Scandal," Friend plays fictional politician James Whitehouse, who is accused of rape. As one would imagine, Friend does not like the character, nor his lack of accountability, and didn't want to take the role at first; however, Friend eventually found nuance in the role.
he was bullied
Young Rupert Friend was bullied for his haircut and glasses; he even had cigarettes put out on him by bullies. "I wouldn't say they were actually fights, [...] I don't think I ever managed to successfully hit back," Friend said of these encounters, but a theater teacher of his helped him.
daniel day-lewis is his hero
Friend says Daniel Day-Lewis is his ultimate acting hero: "Seeing 'My Left Foot' and then 'Last of the Mohicans' moments later and realizing it was the same person, [...] I still look for that transformative quality in actors." Friend also admits to having man-crushes on Harrison Ford and Marlon Brando.
talented writer
Friend has enjoyed success in writing, having penned song lyrics (for British band Kairos 4tet's album "Everything We Hold") and short films ("The Continuing and Lamentable Saga of the Suicide Brothers" and "Steve"), and the upcoming biopic "Cornerman" starring Bruce Willis.