NEW YORK – Adam Pearson is an ardent believer in the old adage: Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Before becoming an actor, Pearson worked at the BBC after college. He was hired for six months, but, as with much in Pearson’s life, he was determined to make the most of it.
“I decided I’m going to meet every person on this floor and ask them for coffee,” Pearson says. “If they say yes, great. If they say ‘No, you’re an idiot,’ I already know that. I’ve lost nothing in that transaction.”
“It’s all about taking risks and rolling the dice,” says Pearson.
For Pearson, taking risks has a different meaning than for most. Since he was a young boy, Pearson has had neurofibromatosis, a condition that covers much of his face with benign skin tumors. But rather than letting that define him, Pearson has risen to become an acclaimed actor, TV host, and activist for disabled individuals. He is fearless, having acted naked alongside Scarlett Johansson. In the new film, “A Different Man,” he shares the screen with Sebastian Stan, with many saying he steals the spotlight.
“This past year has been wild,” Pearson said in a recent interview at the A24 offices in New York. “If you had told me that I’d work with Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan, and have this conversation with you, I wouldn’t have believed it.”
“A Different Man,” which is expanding in theaters this week, has garnered attention since its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in January. The film centers on Edward (played by Stan), a disfigured man who undergoes experimental surgery, transforming his appearance to that of Sebastian Stan. Ingrid, a young playwright played by Renate Reinsve, is unaware of Edward’s transformation and casts him in her play inspired by their friendship. However, when Oswald, a charismatic man with neurofibromatosis portrayed by Pearson, enters the scene, he quickly steals the limelight.
Director Aaron Schimberg believes that by the end of the movie, viewers will see that Sebastian Stan’s character is envious of Adam Pearson’s portrayal of Oswald, highlighting the value of being different.
Pearson, 39, hailing from Croydon in London, has a twin brother named Neil, who shares his condition, albeit manifesting as short-term memory loss for Neil. Following college, Pearson gravitated toward television, working on various series and documentaries, including some about himself.
“I discovered who I was by trying things I wasn’t and realizing that trying to please everyone is as miserable as loneliness,” Pearson reflects. “Once you are comfortable in your skin and embrace yourself, that’s when you really find your way.”
Pearson’s acting career took off with a role in Jonathan Glazer’s 2013 film “Under the Skin,” where he played a pivotal role opposite Johansson. This experience opened his eyes to the vulnerability required for acting, showing him the freedom that comes with being lost in the moment.
Despite garnering success, Pearson’s casting in Schimberg’s 2019 film “Chained for Life” led to criticism regarding exploitation. However, this criticism prompted Schimberg to create “A Different Man” as a more authentic portrayal, reflective of Pearson’s personality and charm.
Pearson’s role as Oswald is an amplified version of himself, exuding charm and charisma akin to Ryan Gosling in “Stupid Crazy Love.” Before filming, Pearson collaborated with Stan to synchronize their movements and performances, utilizing the opportunity to learn and grow as an actor.
While working on a documentary about storytelling, Pearson views “A Different Man” as a breakthrough in his acting career. Despite the overwhelming reviews and attention, Pearson remains humble, appreciating every moment and not taking anything for granted.
One of the cherished moments Pearson recalls is attending the Berlin Film Festival with his family, where his mother finally acknowledged his rising fame.
Schimberg believes Pearson may be more at ease promoting the film than Stan, highlighting Pearson’s ability to shine in the spotlight.
“In the trailer, it says, ‘Adam Pearson steals the show,’ and I think, ‘Stealing’s illegal,’” Pearson chuckles. “But it also feels right. I’ll keep showing up, stealing the show, and repeating. That’s the plan now.”
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