**Hollywood News Live Today – October 11, 2024: The Apprentice Stars Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong Discuss Trump Film as a Human Tragedy**
In a recent interview, *The Apprentice* stars Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong opened up about their roles in the upcoming film that explores the life and presidency of Donald Trump. The actors described the film as a deep dive into a “human tragedy,” focusing on the personal and political complexities of Trump’s rise to power.
### The Film’s Premise
*The Apprentice* is a biographical drama that chronicles the life of Donald Trump, from his early days as a real estate mogul to his controversial presidency. The film aims to explore not just the political implications of his leadership but also the personal struggles and ambitions that shaped his career. The movie delves into Trump’s relationships with his family, his business empire, and the media, offering a nuanced portrayal of one of the most polarizing figures in modern history.
### Meet the Stars
– **Sebastian Stan**: Known for his role as Bucky Barnes (The Winter Soldier) in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Stan has built a reputation for playing complex characters. In *The Apprentice*, he portrays Donald Trump during his younger years, capturing the ambition and drive that led Trump to become a household name. Stan has previously starred in critically acclaimed films such as *I, Tonya* and *The Devil All the Time*, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
– **Jeremy Strong**: Best known for his Emmy-winning performance as Kendall Roy in HBO’s *Succession*, Strong takes on the role of an older Donald Trump during his presidency. Known for his method acting, Strong has immersed himself in the role, studying Trump’s mannerisms, speech patterns, and decision-making processes. His portrayal promises to be a deep and thoughtful exploration of Trump’s psyche. Strong has also appeared in films like *The Big Short* and *The Trial of the Chicago 7*.
### A Human Tragedy
In their interview, both Stan and Strong emphasized that the film is not a straightforward political drama but rather a human story about ambition, power, and the consequences of unchecked ego.
> “This isn’t just about politics,” said Stan. “It’s about a man who, in many ways, was shaped by his environment and his own insecurities. It’s a human tragedy in the sense that we see how power can corrupt and how ambition can lead to isolation.”
Strong echoed these sentiments, adding, “We wanted to show the complexity of Trump as a person. He’s not just a caricature; he’s a man with deep flaws, but also someone who has had a profound impact on the world. It’s a story that needs to be told.”
### Key Themes Explored in the Film
– **Ambition**: The film explores Trump’s relentless drive to succeed, from his early days in real estate to his time in the White House.
– **Family Dynamics**: The movie delves into Trump’s relationships with his family, particularly his father Fred Trump, who played a significant role in shaping his worldview.
– **Media and Power**: The film also examines Trump’s complex relationship with the media, portraying how he used it to his advantage while also becoming a target of intense scrutiny.
– **Isolation**: As Trump’s power grows, the film shows how he becomes increasingly isolated, both personally and politically.
### A Brief History of Donald Trump
Donald Trump was born on June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York. He was the fourth of five children born to Fred and Mary Trump. His father was a successful real estate developer, and Donald followed in his footsteps, eventually taking over the family business. Trump expanded the company’s reach, building skyscrapers, hotels, and casinos, and branding himself as a larger-than-life figure in the business world.
In 2004, Trump became a household name through the reality TV show *The Apprentice*, where he famously coined the phrase “You’re fired!” His television success further boosted his public profile, setting the stage for his eventual run for the U.S. presidency.
In 2016, Trump won the presidency in a shocking upset, defeating Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. His presidency was marked by controversy, including two impeachments, a polarizing approach to immigration, and a tumultuous relationship with the media. Trump left office in January 2021 but remains a significant figure in American politics.
### Bullet Points: Key Moments in Trump’s Life
– Born on June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York.
– Took over the family real estate business in the 1970s.
– Expanded into hotels, casinos, and branding ventures.
– Became a reality TV star with *The Apprentice* in 2004.
– Won the U.S. presidency in 2016, defeating Hillary Clinton.
– Faced two impeachments during his presidency.
– Left office in January 2021 but continues to influence American politics.
### Conclusion
*The Apprentice* promises to be a thought-provoking film that goes beyond the headlines to explore the personal and political complexities of Donald Trump. With powerful performances from Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong, the movie aims to offer a balanced and nuanced portrayal of a man who has left an indelible mark on American history.
For more updates on *The Apprentice* and other Hollywood news, stay tuned.