Sebastian Stan, best known for his role as Bucky Barnes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, is stepping into a completely different kind of role—one that has already sparked intense conversation. In the upcoming film The Apprentice, Stan portrays a young Donald Trump, delving into the former president’s early years and rise to power. In a recent interview, Stan opened up about the challenges of playing such a polarizing figure, admitting, “The truth hurts.”
A Role Unlike Any Other
Playing Donald Trump is no small feat, and Stan has fully embraced the complexity of the role. The Apprentice, directed by Ali Abbasi, explores Trump’s life in the 1970s and 1980s, focusing on his relationships, business ventures, and the beginnings of his public persona. For Stan, the role required extensive research and a deep dive into Trump’s mannerisms, speech patterns, and personality.
In an interview with NPR, Stan shared that portraying Trump was both daunting and enlightening. “You have to separate the man from the myth,” he explained. “There’s a lot to unpack, and it’s not always comfortable. But as an actor, you have to approach it with honesty and curiosity.”
The Challenges of Portraying Trump
One of the biggest challenges Stan faced was capturing Trump’s unique voice and demeanor. “He’s such a larger-than-life figure,” Stan said. “Every gesture, every word—it’s all very specific. You can’t just mimic him; you have to understand what drives him.”
Stan also acknowledged the emotional toll of playing such a controversial figure. “The truth hurts,” he admitted. “There were moments when I had to confront aspects of his character that were difficult to reconcile. But that’s what makes it interesting—it forces you to ask questions and challenge your own perceptions.”
A Story About Power and Ambition
The Apprentice is not just a biopic; it’s a exploration of power, ambition, and the American Dream. The film delves into Trump’s relationships with key figures, including his mentor Roy Cohn, played by Jeremy Strong, and his first wife, Ivana Trump, portrayed by Maria Bakalova.
Stan emphasized that the film aims to provide a nuanced portrayal of Trump, rather than a one-dimensional caricature. “It’s easy to villainize or idolize someone like Trump,” he said. “But the reality is much more complicated. This film tries to show the man behind the persona, for better or worse.”
Audience Reactions and Expectations
Given Trump’s polarizing legacy, The Apprentice is already generating buzz and debate. Some viewers are eager to see a fresh perspective on Trump’s early years, while others are skeptical about how the film will handle such a contentious figure.
Stan understands the weight of expectations but remains focused on the craft. “At the end of the day, my job is to tell a story,” he said. “I hope people walk away with a deeper understanding of who Trump is and what drives him. Whether they agree with him or not, that’s up to them.”
Conclusion
Sebastian Stan’s portrayal of Donald Trump in The Apprentice is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about performances of the year. By embracing the complexity of the role and approaching it with honesty, Stan is offering audiences a chance to see Trump in a new light. As he aptly put it, “The truth hurts, but it’s also what makes great storytelling.”
The Apprentice is set to premiere later this year, and if Stan’s reflections are any indication, it’s a film that will spark conversation, challenge perspectives, and leave a lasting impact.