Mark Wahlberg is an exceptionally well-known and talented actor. Best known for his work in massively successful projects like The Transformers franchise, Fear, Pain and Gain, and Shooter, through which, he has made a name for himself as not only a skilled but also a diverse actor. He is known for going above and beyond in any role that he takes up, showcasing the versatility and dedication in his acting. He has also been nominated for an Academy Award twice, once in the category of Best Picture, and once in the category of Best Supporting Actor.
During an interview, Wahlberg talked about the time that he was reminded of his age and limitations as an actor. This happened when he was asked to be in a film and misunderstood what role they wanted him for.
Mark Wahlberg Thought That He Was Being Cast In A Younger Role
It is quite a common phenomenon in Hollywood for actors, regardless of how successful and talented, to start to be cast in older roles as soon as they reach a particular age. It would seem that no one is exempt from this, including the incredibly talented and respected, Mark Wahlberg. During an interview on The Graham Norton Show, the actor, who was 41 years old at the time, revealed that he was asked to be on a project that required two roles to be cast, a younger man and an older man.
“Oh my god! I got a call from my agent saying that Paramount has this movie that they want me to do. A young guy and an older guy. So I’m thinking, sh*t I just had played golf with Jack Nicholson and I’m like, I’ll Ask Jake to play the part. And then I was like well maybe if Jack doesn’t do it then, you know, Gene Hackman hasn’t worked in a while. So I’m thinking of all these great guys who I could do this movie with”
Assuming that he was being asked to play the younger character, Wahlberg started to think of possible contenders that he could play alongside. Starting with Jack Nicholson, who he had recently played golf with. He then started to think of someone else who could play the part if Nicholson did not want to play the part, thinking of Gene Hackman and other great actors who could do it.
Mark Wahlberg Was Under The Wrong Impression
It would seem, however, that Wahlberg was horribly mistaken. This was something he realized when he received a call from those behind the film and its casting. On this call, the actor was asked what he thought about the role going to Garrett Hedlund, who is best known for his work in projects like Tulsa King, Tron: Legacy, The Tutor, and Four Brothers.
“And then they call me and they say, ‘What do you think about Garret Hedlund?’ and said, ‘For what?’ and they said, ‘For the young guy.’ and I said’ what the f*ck am I gonna play?”’
Naturally, when Wahlberg asked what role the then 28-year-old actor would be good for, he was told that Hedlund was under consideration for the role of the younger character. It was here that Wahlberg realized that he was not under consideration for the role of the younger character but the older one.
Source: The Graham Norton Show
