Michael Cera opened up about passing on a role in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, the 2016 Harry Potter spinoff starring Eddie Redmayne.
Appearing on The Louis Theroux Podcast, Cera shared that he used to be averse to franchises because he was afraid of the exposure. When he was being considered for a role in Fantastic Beasts, Cera said he wasn’t sure if he was offered the part outright, but he declined to entertain the thought.
“I did, sort of, make a conscientious choice to limit my exposure a little bit, or just try and be a little more in control of it,” Cera said. “Doing like, especially little kids movies, I had a big fear of doing things that would get me too famous. I think that’s changed a little. I think I’ve outgrown that particular feeling, but I think that’s what that was at that time.”
Cera had mentioned to Theroux earlier in the podcast that he did not adjust well to fame in his youth, saying he would “react poorly sometimes to being recognized.” He added that he struggled with the loss of control he felt when receiving attention from fans.
Now, the Phoenician Scheme actor said he wouldn’t be so quick to turn down a franchise, especially if it seemed interesting to him.
Cera had reportedly been considered for the role of Jacob Kowalski, a Muggle factory worker who is introduced to the world of wizardry by protagonist Newt Scamander (Redmayne). The part ultimately went to Dan Fogler.
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Listen to the entire conversation with Michael Cera on The Louis Theroux Podcast below.