Noah Jupe on Paul Mescal: The Ultimate Role Model Revealed

As the BAFTA Film Awards approach this Sunday, Noah Jupe has spoken about the influence Paul Mescal has had on him, calling the actor a true role model. Jupe’s reflections come from their collaboration on Chloé Zhao’s film Hamnet, which received 11 nominations, including one for Mescal as best supporting actor.

Insights from Working with Paul Mescal on Hamnet

Noah Jupe plays the character Hamlet in Hamnet, while his younger brother Jacobi portrays the playwright’s son, Hamnet, whose tragic death shapes the film’s narrative. Jupe praised Mescal, describing him as a remarkably humble and dedicated professional. Mescal, currently filming a Beatles biopic, impressed Jupe with his work ethic and passion on set.

Reflecting on his experience, Jupe said,

“But such an incredible man that I don’t think he would ever like feel that he would need to give me any parting words, but just watching him work, and watching how he is on set and how professional and hardworking and passionate he is, it’s enough for me to, like, you know, take him as a role model and be more like him.”

– Noah Jupe, Actor

Preparing for the West End Debut in Romeo and Juliet

Jupe is set to make his West End debut at the Harold Pinter Theatre on March 16, starring opposite Sadie Sink, who is also making her London stage debut. The two actors will appear in a new production of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. For Sink, this marks her first stage role since the end of her Netflix series Stranger Things, where she played Max Mayfield.

Despite having only rehearsed together twice, Jupe expressed confidence in their preparations for the production. He noted the challenge and richness of Shakespeare’s work, stating,

Paul Mescal
Image of: Paul Mescal

“You know, we could work for like, months and months on it and then still not be close to being done. But it’s going well, I’m excited.”

– Noah Jupe, Actor

Shared Experiences and Growing Friendship with Sadie Sink

Jupe and Sink have bonded over experiencing fame at a young age, which they acknowledged is a rare connection. Jupe emphasized the value of this shared background as they spend time together during rehearsals, hoping to build a strong rapport.

He shared,

“It’s always good to meet someone that’s in a similar situation and has sort of been through a similar thing to you, and there’s, I think in our case, there’s not a lot of people out there like that.”

– Noah Jupe, Actor

On Sink’s character and professionalism, Jupe added,

“And so, yeah, she’s so cool, man, she’s annoyingly cool, and she’s so, like, chill and lovely and professional. And, yeah, I honestly, really respect her in a big way.

So, I’m glad we’ve got the time to get to know each other.”

– Noah Jupe, Actor

Hamnet’s BAFTA Nominations and Awards Season Context

Hamnet has entered the awards season spotlight with 11 BAFTA nominations, including best actress for Jessie Buckley alongside Mescal’s best supporting actor nod and Emily Mortimer’s best supporting actress consideration. The film’s recognition highlights the strong ensemble and the powerful story inspired by the tragic death of the title character.

The Broader Impact and Upcoming Opportunities

This moment marks a pivotal point for both Jupe and Mescal, as their work in Hamnet garners critical attention and prepares them for new ventures. Jupe’s upcoming stage debut adds a new dimension to his career, while Mescal’s ongoing projects, including the Beatles biopic, continue to showcase his versatility. Their collaboration demonstrates the influence of dedication and professionalism in the industry, offering a model for aspiring actors.

As awards season unfolds, the spotlight on Mescal and Jupe’s performances reinforces their rising status, with the BAFTA ceremony serving as a key platform for acknowledgment. The upcoming West End production will provide Jupe and Sink an opportunity to deepen their craft and expand their presence in theatre.