Jeremy Strong is known for his Method acting, and he has now shared a secret: he tapped into his training for his new role as Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg in The Social Reckoning.
Though Jesse Eisenberg initially portrayed the part in the original film, he declined to step into the entrepreneur’s shoes in the sequel due to a difference of opinion with him in real life.
However, for Strong, portraying Zuckerberg was an opportunity and a risk worth taking.
By going full Method, the Succession star remained in character on the set throughout the production.
Strong’s commitment to playing Facebook CEO was so convincing that the actor’s friend Bradley Cooper – who is also a star – told GQ magazine, “I’ve talked to Mark Zuckerberg many times — I had a whole friendship with Mark Zuckerberg, and Mark Zuckerberg has no idea.”
However, before becoming a reflection of Zuckerberg during the film, the actor first reached out to him when the part was offered.
Strong confirmed he sent an email to him but did not disclose the exchange between them.
“I wrote to him — I’m probably going to give Sony an aneurysm — I sent him an email,” he said.
“Just to say that I take this responsibility very seriously, and the veracity of it seriously, and I’m approaching it with respect.”
Strong’s dedicated portrayal of Zuckerberg, meanwhile, will unveil in theatres on Oct. 9.
