Australian actor Jacob Elordi has shared the unexpected motivation that led him to embody the Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s film adaptation of Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein. This role earned Elordi his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. The inspiration originated from a critical remark about his earlier work in the romantic comedy The Kissing Booth.
How a Negative Review Shaped a Career-Defining Role
Elordi recounted that after starring in The Kissing Booth, someone had told him,
“When I made my first film, The Kissing Booth, someone said, ‘this plank of wood is so boring he could only play Frankenstein’s monster.’”
The comment lingered with him and sparked a new perspective on his acting opportunities.
On The Graham Norton Show, where he was promoting a new rom-com alongside Margot Robbie, Elordi reflected,
“I actually thought it was a great idea. Then, lo and behold, six or seven years pass and Guillermo del Toro cast me.”
This twist of fate brought him into the world of horror sci-fi with a distinguished cast including Mia Goth, Oscar Isaac, Christopher Waltz, and Charles Dance.
The Film’s Reception and Elordi’s Emerging Career Milestone
Produced by Netflix, del Toro’s Frankenstein has received favorable reviews, boasting a 7.5 rating on IMDb and an 85% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The film has been widely seen as a pivotal project for Elordi, showcasing his range and earning him critical acclaim. His own journey from a romantic comedy actor to a recognized talent in a genre film highlights his determined and reflective approach to career growth.
