Domhnall Gleeson, following in the footsteps of his father Brendan Gleeson, has become one of the thriving Irish actors in Hollywood. While the About Time actor learned his acting basics from home, he drew inspiration from legendary actors, including Cate Blanchett. Interestingly, Gleeson had a cringe-worthy experience to share about the first time he actually got to talk to his idol.
Gleeson gained recognition with his role as Bill Weasley in the final Harry Potter films. Before entering the world of cinema, Gleeson was playing roles in theater productions, where he was often called ‘Cate’ due to a resemblance in facial structure with the actress.
Domhnall Gleeson Embarrassed Himself After Meeting Cate Blanchett
Domhnall Gleeson made an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert to promote his 2022 FX series, The Patient. Stephen Colbert mentioned that the other guest on the show that night was Cate Blanchett and asked Gleeson whether they had ever met. Gleeson had a memorable story to share, which began with him being called ‘Cate’ when he was 19 years old because of his facial resemblance with the Tár actress.
Gleeson even attempted to do an impression of the Thor: Ragnarok actress. Colbert also acknowledged the similarity in their facial bone structure. However, Gleeson was determined not to let this ‘backstory’ come up when he met her backstage during a BAFTA award ceremony. Blanchett, who was nominated for an award that year, was introduced to the Ex Machina actor. Gleeson managed to contain his excitement and graciously talked to her.
However, this story took a cringe-worthy turn, as Gleeson nervously walked away from Blanchett after their conversation and accidentally entered the women’s bathroom. The Revenant actor told Stephen Colbert:
“When I met her years later, it was kind of like backstage at the BAFTAs. I was not nominated. She was. And I met her in a corridor right before it. And somebody introduced me. And I was just thinking, don’t say, ‘We look… Do you get people saying you look like Domhnall Gleeson!’. I was like, ‘Don’t. Don’t do it. Don’t get weird with the great Cate Blanchett.’ I said [to her], ‘I’m a huge fan of your work. I’d love to work with you someday, and it’s a pleasure to meet you.’ and she was very nice back. And I walked away, straight into the women’s bathroom.”
Despite the embarrassment, Gleeson successfully managed to make a good impression on his idol. Whether there will be a future collaboration between these two great actors remains to be seen.
Domhnall Gleeson Also Shared His Experience Working With Another Great Actor
Domhnall Gleeson starred alongside Steve Carell in ten episodes of The Patient. While Carell has an impressive track record in comedy, his role as therapist Alan Strauss in a psychological thriller was a treat for fans. Gleeson also impressed audiences with his intense portrayal of a serial killer. Gleeson shared with Colbert that he enjoyed every second of working with The Office actor.
The premise of the show revolves around a serial killer who kidnaps a therapist and chains him in his basement to help him curb his murderous instincts. The Brooklyn actor revealed that Carell insisted on playing the role with real heavy chains on his legs. Both Gleeson and the host appreciated Carell’s dedication to the role.
The Patient is now available for streaming on Hulu.
