Robert Pattinson has responded to fans comparing his performance in the upcoming film Primetime to the Joker.
Pattinson plays a fictionalised version of journalist Chris Hansen, known for the television series To Catch a Predator, in Lance Oppenheim’s upcoming A24 drama.
His portrayal has already sparked memes and viral reactions online, with some viewers pointing to similarities between his character and the iconic DC villain.
Fans compare Pattinson’s performance to Joker
In one scene from Primetime, Pattinson’s character confronts a nervous man, played by Tony Revolori, at a sting house.
When the man insists, “I was just talking. It’s just chat,” Pattinson’s Hansen responds, “It’s not just chat, though, is it?” while adopting Hansen’s distinctive speaking style.
The scene prompted comparisons with the Joker among fans online.
One post on X suggested Pattinson’s version of the DC villain “would’ve been generational.” The post has reportedly received more than seven million views.
Pattinson praises Barry Keoghan’s Joker
Pattinson was asked by Entertainment Weekly whether he also noticed similarities between his Primetime performance and the Joker, and whether he had considered how he might approach the role.
“Oh, Jesus. I mean, it’s such a great part…but Barry’s the man,” Pattinson said, referring to Barry Keoghan, who portrayed the Joker in The Batman.
Pattinson previously played Bruce Wayne in Matt Reeves’ The Batman, while Keoghan appeared as the Joker in the film.
Pattinson plays fictionalised Chris Hansen
Primetime stars Pattinson as Hansen in Oppenheim’s fictionalised interpretation of the journalist’s work and the controversial world surrounding To Catch a Predator.
The film is produced by A24 and is directed by Lance Oppenheim.
