🔗 Share this article

As part of a recent discussion in London, acclaimed actor Timothée Chalamet was asked to compiling his choices of five legendary Britons.

"Hamilton, David and Victoria Beckham," he began, citing the multiple Formula One champion and the famous couple.

His list took an unexpected turn with the inclusion of London-based rapper Fakemink, leading to questions about a alleged link with anonymous Liverpool artist EsDeeKid. On this topic, Chalamet responded with, "All will be revealed."

However, it was his ultimate selection that came totally out of left field. After a long pause, he revealed: "Susan Boyle."

It turns out, one of the leading movie stars today is a self-professed admirer of the Scottish former Britain's Got Talent contestant, who went on to two US number one albums.

"She dreamt bigger than all of us," he explained without any hint of irony. "It was universally stirring by that?" he said, referencing the famous online moment of Boyle performing I Dreamed A Dream.

The Promotion Behind the List

The purpose for naming these icons relates to a unconventional promotional effort for his latest 1950s table tennis film, Marty Supreme.

For the previous month, Chalamet has been presenting denim jackets bearing the film's title to personalities he deems to be "inspiring."

Honourees previously have included swimmer Michael Phelps, NFL great Tom Brady, and soccer prodigy Lamine Yamal.

On His Craft

In Marty Supreme, Chalamet embodies Marty Mauser, a loosely-based version of real-life post-war star Marty Reisman. The character possesses a flawed nature, executing a heist and disrupting a marriage.

"Essentially, when you're in your twenties, you're an naive," he said with a laugh. "This movie, in large part, is about making mistakes in your youth."

His frenetically entertaining performance has already landed him best actor nominations at the major awards, leading to a potential Oscar race with Leonardo DiCaprio.

Pursuit of Greatness

Chalamet's self-assurance was on display earlier this year when, receiving a SAG Award, he stated his pursuit of legendary status, listing inspirations like Daniel Day-Lewis and Viola Davis.

When asked about the root of this drive, he noted: "Truthfully, it comes and goes. And I feel like that's what drives me on my toes... It's a never-ending process."

Looking Back

Nearing this milestone, Chalamet reflects on a period that included critical acclaim in films like Dune and Wonka.

"It's been incredible. I feel like I'm existing in a dream," he admitted with a broad grin.

His preparation is intense: five years of guitar for A Complete Unknown, and seven years of table tennis for his latest role.

"I think the duty... is that it looks real on screen," he enthused.

A Love for Cinema

At a time when streaming giants are dominating the industry, Marty Supreme is an cinematic story designed for a big-screen release.

"I do think cinemas will survive and thrive," Chalamet argued. "My responsibility... is... to bring this experience and deliver it to people."

He sincerely believes that films like his can help saving the theatrical model.

"It is an original film at a time where a lot of original films are rare... I've never been more certain in saying, 'Hey, if you come to see this movie, you will enjoy it.'"

On the cusp of 30, Timothée Chalamet appears more than ready to embody the spirit of his unexpected pick, Susan Boyle, and pursue his vision.

Marty Supreme is set to premiere on December 26th.