Paul Mescal, one of Hollywood’s hottest rising stars, has captured the hearts of fans with his unforgettable performances. From his breakout role in Normal People that earned him an Emmy nomination to his Oscar-nominated performance in Aftersun, this Irish actor is clearly just getting started. But Mescal isn’t just conquering screens—he’s also a force on stage, winning an Olivier Award for his raw portrayal of Stanley Kowalski in A Streetcar Named Desire.
Eyeing Al Pacino’s Iconic Role
So what’s next for Mescal? If he has his way, he’s eyeing a dream role: Sonny Wortzik in Dog Day Afternoon. For those not in the know, Al Pacino first brought Sonny to life in the 1975 classic. The film tells the true story of John Wojtowicz, who robbed a bank to pay for his transgender wife’s surgery. “That role is incredible. It’s so layered,” Mescal recently said about his hopes to take on the character. We’d love to see him sink his teeth into a part that blends high stakes and deep emotional complexity.
Busy Schedule: From WWI to the Colosseum
While playing Sonny might still be on the wishlist, Mescal’s current projects are keeping him plenty busy. He stars alongside Josh O’Connor in The History of Sound, a World War I love story directed by Oliver Hermanus. The two actors play men who travel the country documenting the voices and lives of their fellow Americans during the war. That’s definitely one to watch for all the feels.
And, of course, the buzz surrounding Gladiator II is impossible to ignore. Mescal will star in Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated sequel, which already has fans hyped. As if that weren’t enough, he’s also making waves in All of Us Strangers, co-starring Andrew Scott. Critics are loving his tender performance in the queer drama, proving once again that Mescal can do it all.
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Mescal’s Queer Icon Status
Speaking of All of Us Strangers, Mescal’s connection with the LGBTQ+ community runs deep. His roles often resonate with queer audiences, and he’s been praised for bringing authenticity to these characters. Not only does he champion diverse stories, but he’s also a vocal advocate for representation in Hollywood.
What’s Next?
Whether it’s conquering the stage, winning over critics, or becoming the next big queer icon, Paul Mescal’s star is only getting brighter. With a string of exciting roles lined up and that killer combo of talent and charm, it’s safe to say he’s here to stay. Keep your eyes peeled for what this leading man tackles next—you won’t want to miss it!
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