Gary Oldman Gave Christopher Nolan an Ultimatum on ‘Oppenheimer’ Due to ‘Slow Horses’ Role: ‘If You Don’t Want Wigs’ Then ‘Get Someone Else to Do It’

As a movie reviewer with a penchant for delving into the lives of actors, I find Gary Oldman’s journey to be nothing short of captivating. His ability to transform himself into diverse characters has not only left an indelible mark on our screens but also mirrors his own life’s metamorphosis.


Gary Oldman is once again on Apple TV+, gracing our screens with the launch of the fourth season of his Emmy-nominated series “Slow Horses,” which has kept him busy as Jackson Lamb. This commitment almost conflicted with his reunion with Christopher Nolan for the film “Oppenheimer.” In the past, Oldman played detective James “Jim” Gordon in Nolan’s Batman trilogy, and he portrayed U.S. president Harry S. Truman in one of Nolan’s Oscar-winning dramas. However, to take on this new role, Oldman had to prioritize his commitment to “Slow Horses,” informing Nolan that his character took precedence

“Unlike previous roles, this one sticks with me even during extended breaks, as it determines my future projects. Gary Oldman shared this insight with the Wall Street Journal Magazine, explaining his shift in approach due to his commitment to a TV series. He elaborated, ‘I worked on ‘Oppenheimer’ for a day, and I informed Chris Nolan that I’d need a prosthetic cap and wig because I can’t trim my hair. If you’re okay with that, then I’d be thrilled to join; if not, you’ll have to find someone else.’ In essence, the character of Lamb remains close by in this regard.”

Oldman remarked that John Lennon had once expressed dislike for his own voice, a sentiment that seems unimaginable. However, he often sought to modify it or layer his vocals. Lennon stated, “I’d simply erase all the records and begin anew.” I can relate. I prefer moving forward rather than dwelling on past achievements. If someone asked me about my finest work, I’d reply, “The future one.”

Nolan consented to the artificial cap, and they reconnected for “Oppenheimer.” In a previous interview on “The Drew Barrymore Show,” Oldman expressed appreciation towards the “Harry Potter” and “Batman” series for providing him with a personal and professional lifeline. Prior to landing roles as Sirius Black and Jim Gordon, acting opportunities were dwindling for Oldman; these characters not only endeared him to genre enthusiasts but also catapulted his career to new heights, bestowing it with the stardom it had lacked previously

“At 42 years old, I found myself divorced and responsible for my sons. This was tough because there was a change in the film industry, with many productions being shot in Hungary, Budapest, Prague, Australia, among other locations. Consequently, I had to decline several job offers.”

“He expressed gratitude for ‘Harry Potter,’ saying, “I am grateful for Harry Potter. To tell you the truth, Harry Potter and Batman were my lifesavers. They allowed me to do minimal work yet earn a good income, which meant I could be home more with my children.”

The fourth season of Oldman’s “Slow Horses” just premiered on Apple TV+.

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2024-09-05 20:37