Josh O’Connor reveals Zendaya handpicked him for sexually ‘fluid’ Challengers role
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British actor Josh O’Connor is set to star in the upcoming film “Challengers” alongside Mike Faist and Zendaya. The film, directed by Luca Guadagnino of “Call Me By Your Name” fame, is a tennis drama that follows Zendaya’s character Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy turned coach after suffering an injury.
The plot takes a twist when Tashi begins coaching her husband, Art (played by Faist), out of a losing streak, and he is set to play against his former best friend and Tashi’s ex-boyfriend, Patrick (played by O’Connor). The film is confirmed to have at least one queer moment between Art and Patrick, as well as some suggestive sauna scenes and banana-eating.
O’Connor has previously spoken about the sexuality of his character in “Challengers,” describing him as not a good person but reveling in his “evilness.” He expressed excitement about playing a character who is unapologetically rude and proud of it.
Zendaya, who also produced the film, handpicked O’Connor for the role. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Zendaya mentioned that she thought of O’Connor immediately when casting for the film, referring to him as “the guy from The Crown.” O’Connor admitted that he was initially unsure if his co-stars would even know who he was, but he was pleasantly surprised by their recognition.
The chemistry between the characters in “Challengers” has been praised by early viewers, with the film being described as “deeply horny” thanks to the love triangle at its core. O’Connor hinted at the fluidity of the relationships in the film, stating that the characters are all trying to understand their feelings for each other and how they play out in the story.
“Challengers” is set to premiere in US and UK cinemas on 26 April, promising an intriguing and provocative exploration of love, friendship, and competition on the tennis court. With a talented cast led by Josh O’Connor, Mike Faist, and Zendaya, the film is sure to captivate audiences with its unique storyline and complex characters.
In conclusion, “Challengers” is a film that challenges societal norms and explores the complexities of relationships in a competitive environment. With its talented cast and thought-provoking storyline, it promises to be a must-watch for fans of drama and romance alike. Stay tuned for the premiere of “Challengers” and witness Josh O’Connor’s captivating performance in this provocative tennis drama.
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Challengers
