SmartLess Podcast Episode: "Nicholas Hoult" Release Date: July 7, 2025

Introduction In this engaging episode of SmartLess, hosts Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett welcome actor Nicholas Hoult to discuss his illustrious career, the intricacies of preparing for diverse roles, and balancing personal life with the demands of the entertainment industry. The conversation is marked by the hosts' trademark humor and candid dialogue, providing listeners with a comprehensive look into Hoult's professional journey and personal insights.

Early Career and Breakthrough Nicholas Hoult reminisces about his early start in acting, highlighting his breakout role in the film About a Boy at the tender age of eleven.

Sean Hayes (Timestamp [31:00]): "How did you become you? You're so good at what you do. How did that all start?"

Nicholas Hoult (Timestamp [27:36]): "I was lucky. My older brother really loved acting and my older sister did a lot of singing and dancing. Being the third sibling, I ended up getting dragged into dance classes and theater shows. It was kind of a family hobby that eventually led me to get an agent and pursue acting professionally."

Hoult discusses the challenges of transitioning from a child actor to an adult, noting the self-consciousness that comes with early fame but emphasizes that most experiences were positive and fleeting.

Preparing for Roles The conversation delves into Hoult's method for preparing for demanding roles, particularly focusing on his portrayal of Lex Luthor in the latest Superman installment.

Will Arnett (Timestamp [46:45]): "How do you like doing the American accent? Is it easy for you?"

Nicholas Hoult (Timestamp [47:25]): "I worked with an opera coach to refine my American accent. It's not easy, especially when trying to place the voice differently to fit the character. During filming in the Arctic Circle, it was especially challenging without a hat, but it added authenticity to the role."

Hoult shares his experience of shaving his head for the role, describing the physical and emotional adjustments required. He recounts the intensity of filming in harsh environments, such as the Namibian Desert for Mad Max, where coordinating numerous engines created an immersive yet overwhelming atmosphere.

Nicholas Hoult (Timestamp [41:11]): "Being on set in the desert with all those engines roaring was surreal. It's an experience that doesn't get easier, but it's incredibly rewarding."

Balancing Personal Life and Work The hosts and Hoult discuss the delicate balance between a demanding acting career and personal responsibilities, including family life.

Will Arnett (Timestamp [19:02]): "You’ve got two boys, how old?"

Nicholas Hoult (Timestamp [19:15]): "Seven and two. It's chaos, but incredibly rewarding. Recently, I tore my ACL while playing basketball, which has been tough, but I'm focusing on rehab to get back to work."

Hoult emphasizes the importance of family support and how relocating to Long Beach helped him stay grounded amidst his hectic schedule.

Nicholas Hoult (Timestamp [15:30]): "Living in Long Beach brings me closer to my wife's family, and it's a great support system. Plus, the community here is wonderful."

Choosing Roles and Career Philosophy Hoult shares his criteria for selecting roles, prioritizing meaningful projects and collaboration with top-tier directors and actors over mere box office potential.

Nicholas Hoult (Timestamp [38:44]): "I'm chasing fame and money, but I also want to do good work. When I look back, I want to feel proud of the projects I've been part of."

He reflects on the roles he turned down, acknowledging that while some missed opportunities were disappointing, they often led to observing others excel in those parts.

Nicholas Hoult (Timestamp [39:20]): "There was a role that someone else played beautifully, and I respected their portrayal. It taught me to focus on my own journey rather than dwelling on what could have been."

Hoult also discusses the challenges of promoting large-scale films and how he has adapted his mindset to embrace the promotional aspects as part of his professional duties.

Nicholas Hoult (Timestamp [43:32]): "I've learned to see promotions not as a hassle but as a crucial part of the job. It's about sharing the story and connecting with the audience."

Conclusion The episode concludes with heartfelt appreciation from the hosts for Hoult's transparency and dedication to his craft. They express excitement for his upcoming roles, particularly his portrayal of Lex Luthor in Superman, set to release on July 11th. Hoult's insights offer a nuanced perspective on the life of a modern actor, balancing artistic integrity with the commercial aspects of the film industry.

Will Arnett (Timestamp [51:57]): "We're all looking forward to seeing Superman. Make sure to catch it on July 11th!"

Jason Bateman (Timestamp [51:57]): "Nicholas Holt is back and better than ever. He's got a lot of exciting projects ahead, and we can't wait to see them."

Notable Quotes

• Sean Hayes (Timestamp [31:00]): "How did you become you? You're so good at what you do. How did that all start?"

• Nicholas Hoult (Timestamp [27:36]): "Being the third sibling, I ended up getting dragged into dance classes and theater shows. It was kind of a family hobby that eventually led me to get an agent and pursue acting professionally."

• Nicholas Hoult (Timestamp [41:11]): "Being on set in the desert with all those engines roaring was surreal. It's an experience that doesn't get easier, but it's incredibly rewarding."

• Nicholas Hoult (Timestamp [38:44]): "I'm chasing fame and money, but I also want to do good work. When I look back, I want to feel proud of the projects I've been part of."

Final Thoughts This episode of SmartLess offers a deep dive into Nicholas Hoult's career and personal life, enriched by the hosts' engaging and humorous banter. Listeners gain valuable insights into the dedication required to succeed in the acting world, the importance of meaningful role selection, and the necessity of balancing personal commitments with professional aspirations.