Fresh Air Podcast Summary: "For Sebastian Stan, 'The Apprentice' Playing In Theaters Was The Win"
Introduction
In the February 11, 2025 episode of NPR's Fresh Air, host Terry Gross engages in a deep and insightful conversation with acclaimed actor Sebastian Stan. Stan is nominated for an Oscar for his compelling portrayal of Donald Trump in the film The Apprentice. Additionally, Stan recently secured a Golden Globe for his role in A Different Man, where he portrays a man transformed physically but left emotionally isolated.
Portraying Donald Trump in The Apprentice
Stan’s role as Donald Trump required him to embody a complex and multifaceted character. He navigated the challenge of portraying Trump without falling into caricature, aiming to present a more nuanced version of the former president.
Sebastian Stan (02:41): “Trump did not sound like Trump when he was in his mid to late 30s... I needed to bring the audience in on this journey as opposed to alienating them from the beginning.”
Stan meticulously researched Trump’s demeanor and speech patterns from various interviews and public appearances to create an authentic portrayal. This dedication extended to improvising key scenes to capture the essence of Trump's character more accurately.
Sebastian Stan (05:38): “That whole clip actually was improvised... I had to very carefully select and maneuver them and kind of earn them over the period of time of the movie.”
Improvisation and Creative Process
During the filming of The Apprentice, Stan took creative liberties to enhance the authenticity of pivotal scenes. One notable instance involved an improvised negotiation scene with New York City Mayor Ed Koch, where both Stan and Jeremy Strong (playing Roy Cohn) injected spontaneous dialogue to heighten realism.
Sebastian Stan (07:00): “I had to very carefully select and maneuver them and kind of earn them over the period of time of the movie.”
This approach not only enriched Stan's performance but also deepened the audience's engagement with the characters' dynamics.
Reflecting on Trump's Second Term and Real-World Parallels
Given that The Apprentice was filmed during Joe Biden’s presidency, Stan reflects on the relevance of his portrayal amidst Trump’s continued influence in American politics. He draws parallels between his character’s tactics and Trump's real-life actions, noting the predictability and cyclical nature of Trump’s strategies.
Sebastian Stan (07:09): “A lot of things look very predictable to me, especially having studied him for this film. The victimhood, blaming, the revenge tactics... it's eerily familiar.”
Stan expresses a sense of tragic inevitability, recognizing the personal and societal costs of the traits he portrayed.
Facing Real-World Backlash
The film The Apprentice faced significant backlash, including a cease and desist letter from Donald Trump alleging defamation and interference with the 2024 election. This real-world conflict mirrored the confrontational tactics depicted in the film, placing Stan and his team on the receiving end of the very behaviors they had dramatized.
Sebastian Stan (11:22): “It was almost pretty much on target, right? For what we were all expecting.”
Despite these challenges, Stan emphasizes the team's preparedness and resilience, highlighting their thorough legal and factual groundwork.
Growing Up: From Romania to America
Stan shares poignant memories of his early life in Romania, particularly the political turmoil during the fall of Nicolae Ceaușescu's regime. Witnessing his parents' escape from communism left a lasting impact on him, shaping his understanding of freedom and the American Dream.
Sebastian Stan (21:36): “I remember watching the execution on television. We only had one hour of news a night... I have these vivid memories.”
His family's escape was not just a physical relocation but also an emotional journey, as Stan adapted to new cultures and languages, first in Vienna and then in the United States.
Acting as a Liberating Force
Stan reflects on how acting became a sanctuary and a means of self-expression, allowing him to overcome feelings of isolation and insecurity from his youth. Participation in school plays and acting camps like Stage Door Manor were pivotal in building his confidence and fostering his passion for the craft.
Sebastian Stan (29:54): “Acting liberated me from that... It was the first thing that gave me permission to have more confidence and courage.”
His breakthrough role came at 21 with Law & Order, where he portrayed a kidnapped teenager grappling with his identity and the revelation of his true parentage. This early experience on television taught him the complexities of emotional expression and the pressures of appearing on-screen.
Golden Globe Success in A Different Man
Stan's recent Golden Globe-winning performance in A Different Man showcases his versatility as an actor. He portrays a man whose physical transformation through experimental treatment does not alleviate his internal alienation, highlighting themes of identity and societal perception.
Sebastian Stan (16:54): “I experienced people's reactions firsthand... the limited narratives around disability and disfigurement are.”
Through this role, Stan delves into the superficial judgments based on appearance and the enduring nature of emotional scars, emphasizing the disconnect between external changes and internal realities.
Personal Reflections and Future Outlook
Throughout the interview, Stan expresses gratitude towards his family, particularly his mother and stepfather, for their unwavering support. He acknowledges the challenges of his journey but remains optimistic about his future in the industry.
Sebastian Stan (40:48): “I think she's very proud... This whole experience has been all about being able to thank her, you know, and my stepdad.”
On the topic of awards, Stan humbly reflects on the surreal experience of being nominated for an Oscar, recognizing the hard work and perseverance that led to his achievements despite external adversities.
Sebastian Stan (41:34): “I feel the win has already happened here, for me. And it's just been so surreal.”
Conclusion
Sebastian Stan's conversation on Fresh Air offers a profound exploration of his artistic journey, personal history, and the intricate process of portraying one of the most polarizing figures in recent American politics. His ability to navigate complex characters while drawing from his own life experiences underscores his depth as an actor. As The Apprentice continues to resonate both on screen and in the real world, Stan's insights provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between art, reality, and personal identity.