Jacob Elordi: From Teen Heartthrob to Thoughtful Artist
Jacob Elordi, the 28-year-old Australian actor, has undeniably made a significant shift in his career, stepping away from the teen roles that first put him in the spotlight. During a recent episode of The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast, he reflected deeply on the transformative experience of working with acclaimed director Guillermo del Toro on the upcoming adaptation of Frankenstein. “When I finished the film, I felt like something had shifted, like something had come unstuck in-between my ribs,” he shared. This sentiment encapsulates his evolution as an artist, as he navigates the complex landscape of Hollywood.
The Rise of a New Audience Favorite
In del Toro’s Frankenstein, Elordi plays The Creature—a monumental role that has garnered significant attention. The film’s premiere at the Venice Film Festival was met with a 15-minute standing ovation, and it has since surged in popularity, becoming Netflix’s most-watched English-language film. Elordi is currently generating buzz for a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nod, marking a pivotal moment in his career.
Reflecting on his time in Venice, Elordi noted how seeing his family and friends during the ovation reinforced his belief that he was precisely where he was meant to be. “Since making that movie, I’ve felt a kind of great calm that I’m in the right place,” he said, emphasizing how rare it is to find such reassurance in an industry often fraught with uncertainty.
From Struggles to Stardom
Elordi’s journey to stardom didn’t come easy. Beginning his acting career at the age of 16, he faced a setback after suffering a rugby injury, which led him to explore acting more seriously. His big break came with the Netflix rom-com The Kissing Booth. While he acknowledges the film’s importance in his career, he admits it isn’t a topic he finds particularly exciting to discuss. The movie, which centered on a high school romance, anchored his initial success but also pigeonholed him to some extent.
Following The Kissing Booth, Elordi encountered challenges in the U.S. market. Visa complications limited his job opportunities, and he quickly found himself struggling financially. “I had nowhere to live anymore, and I didn’t want to ask my parents for money anymore, so I was living in my RAV4 on Mulholland Drive,” he revealed. However, the tides turned when he auditioned for Sam Levinson’s HBO drama Euphoria, which propelled him into the public eye.
The Impact of Euphoria
With his portrayal of Nate Jacobs in Euphoria, Elordi became an overnight sensation. “I woke up into a completely different world,” he recalled, highlighting the overwhelming nature of newfound fame. The intersection of social media and celebrity culture intensified his experiences, making the realities of his life feel almost surreal. The show’s success added another layer to his growing reputation, positioning him alongside some of Hollywood’s most talented young actors.
Embracing Artistic Challenges
In 2023, Elordi stepped further away from his heartthrob image with roles in serious films directed by noted auteurs. He played Elvis Presley in Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla, a role that pushed him out of his comfort zone. He candidly shared, “I don’t dance, I don’t sing, and I don’t love to perform unless it’s very kind of insulated.” His incredible commitment to the role even included gaining weight, demonstrating his willingness to fully embody his characters.
The same year also saw him take on a difficult role in Saltburn, where he portrayed a wealthy Oxford student manipulated by a classmate. Such diverse roles indicate his intent to embrace a broader range of characters, showcasing his growing versatility as an actor.
The Transformation for Frankenstein
Elordi’s transformation into The Creature in Frankenstein was nothing short of grueling. The make-up process took anywhere from four to 11 hours daily, comprising more than 40 intricate pieces. “It was an incredibly cathartic process,” Elordi described, likening his state after hours in the chair to a monastic experience. The emotional and physical demands of the role allowed him to deeply connect with the character in a way few actors achieve.
Del Toro, who has long wanted to adapt Frankenstein, saw something unique in Elordi—an affinity that transcends traditional casting choices. “We spoke a similar language,” Elordi recounted, explaining how this connection facilitated a trusting artistic relationship. The director’s encouragement for Elordi to approach the bodily transformation as a “sacrificial rite” opened up new avenues for him to explore the character’s depth.
Future Projects and Evolving Career
Looking ahead, Elordi is poised to continue his artistic evolution with exciting projects in 2026. He is set to star in a new adaptation of Wuthering Heights as Heathcliff opposite Margot Robbie’s Catherine, and he will lead Ridley Scott’s The Dog Stars, a post-apocalyptic film. Additionally, he is reuniting with Lily-Rose Depp for the gothic fairy tale Outer Dark.
As for Euphoria, the much-anticipated third season is on the horizon, a project Elordi reflects on with enthusiasm. “It’s a completely new show again,” he noted, indicating a departure from the previous seasons and infusing fresh energy into the series.
Jacob Elordi’s journey, marked by trials, triumphs, and transformations, continues to captivate audiences, affirming his place as not just a heartthrob, but a thoughtful and dedicated artist navigating the complexities of fame and creativity.
