Jacob Elordi: From Teen Heartthrob to Serious Actor
It’s official: Jacob Elordi has made his mark on Hollywood. Yet, the 26-year-old actor has some candid reflections on his journey, particularly the roles that catapulted him to fame. Best known for his role in Netflix’s “The Kissing Booth” franchise, Elordi is now setting his sights on more critically acclaimed projects, determined to leave his heartthrob status in the dust.
Elordi’s Take on “The Kissing Booth”
Despite the success that “The Kissing Booth” brought him, Elordi has a frank perspective on the films. In a recent interview with GQ for their “Men of the Year” cover story, he expressed his initial reluctance. “I didn’t want to make those movies before I made those movies,” Elordi admitted. He described the films as “ridiculous” and “not universal,” viewing them as mere escapism rather than cinematic art.
Previously, Elordi has been vocal about his creative clashes with Netflix, particularly over character authenticity. He recounted his battle to allow his character to smoke cigarettes, a detail true to the source material, showcasing his commitment to genuine storytelling.
Breaking Free from Typecasting
As a struggling Australian actor, the role of a smoldering high school athlete in “The Kissing Booth” was a significant break for Elordi. However, the subsequent sequels left him yearning to break free from the twee image that came with it. Fortunately, the hit series “Euphoria,” which premiered in 2019, offered him the complex role he was seeking.
Elordi is unapologetic about his desire for quality in his work. “How is caring about your output pretentious?” he questioned, criticizing those who prioritize profit over artistic integrity. For Elordi, time is the most valuable commodity, and he refuses to waste his audience’s with subpar entertainment.
Choosing Roles with Intent
Now, Elordi is more selective with his roles, recently taking on the iconic figure of Elvis Presley in Sofia Coppola’s “Priscilla.” His careful choice of projects reflects a strategy similar to that of Leonardo DiCaprio, who famously transitioned from “Titanic” heartthrob to a heavyweight actor through a series of challenging roles.
Elordi’s upcoming projects include not only “Priscilla” but also a drama titled “Saltburn” directed by Emerald Fennell. Unlike many of his peers, Elordi isn’t drawn to the allure of superhero films. “Not particularly, no,” he stated, expressing a desire to stay true to his artistic preferences rather than conform to industry expectations.
Turning Down Superhero Capes
Elordi’s commitment to his craft has led him to decline opportunities that others might jump at, including a “Superman” audition. He challenges the notion of Hollywood’s “one for me, one for them” approach, wary of the trap that could lead to a loss of originality and personal fulfillment. “That one’s a trap as well,” Elordi explained, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself in an industry often governed by commercial interests.
With a clear vision for his career and a discerning eye for meaningful roles, Jacob Elordi is on a path to redefine his place in Hollywood. His dedication to authenticity and quality storytelling is a breath of fresh air in an industry saturated with formulaic blockbusters. As he continues to choose projects that resonate with him personally, Elordi is not just an actor to watch but a reminder of the power of artistic integrity.
