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'American No': Rupert Everett's Tales of Hollywood

Published 2 months ago on Feb 15, 2025

Rupert Everett on Oscar Wilde, Rejection, and the Kardashians: A Candid Conversation.

Rupert Everett, the acclaimed actor known for his sharp wit and captivating performances, recently opened up about his writing process, inspirations, and even his guilty pleasures, in a candid interview. With his new collection of short stories, "The American No," hitting shelves, Everett delves into the humor of rejection, his enduring fascination with Oscar Wilde, and his surprising admiration for the Kardashians.

Everett, a seasoned veteran of stage and screen, is no stranger to the ups and downs of the entertainment industry. He acknowledges that rejection is an inherent part of the creative life, both for actors and writers. "You have to develop a strong hide," he advises, emphasizing the importance of resilience in the face of setbacks. But rather than succumbing to disappointment, Everett has ingeniously transformed his own experiences of rejection into inspiration for his latest book. "The American No" breathes life into a collection of rejected star-vehicle pitches, showcasing Everett's ability to find humor and creativity in the face of adversity.

The actor's literary inspirations are as diverse as his career. He cites Evelyn Waugh and Graham Greene as significant influences, highlighting their impact on his own writing style. When asked about advice he would give to his younger self, Everett emphasizes the importance of reading. "The more you read, the better the writer you are," he asserts, drawing a parallel to acting, where he believes exposure to films enhances performance.

Oscar Wilde, the iconic playwright and wit, remains a constant source of fascination for Everett. Having explored Wilde's life through stage performances ("The Judas Kiss"), screen adaptations ("The Happy Prince"), and now, the written word, Everett's connection to Wilde transcends mediums. He describes Wilde as a "Christ figure," praising his genius and acknowledging his role in the gay liberation movement. "The road to gay liberation started with Oscar Wilde," Everett declares, recognizing Wilde's courage and impact on society.

"The American No" showcases Everett's diverse storytelling abilities, ranging from hilarious anecdotes to poignant reflections. "The Wrong Box," one of the stories in the collection, offers a humorous take on the late film director John Schlesinger. Everett recalls their complex relationship, marked by both collaboration and conflict. While acknowledging their eventual falling out, he expresses regret and admiration for Schlesinger's talent, citing "The Day of the Locust" as one of his favorite films.

Another intriguing story, "Cuddles and Associates," explores the dark side of Hollywood, depicting a talent agency that brokers unconventional fertility procedures. Everett's imaginative narrative delves into the world of fame, fortune, and the lengths people will go to maintain their youth and desirability. He playfully suggests the idea of stars marketing their own sperm, highlighting the absurdity and excess that can exist within the entertainment industry.

For Everett, writing serves as more than just a creative outlet. He describes it as a "much-needed sense of purpose" during times of career lull. While acknowledging the challenges and anxieties that come with writing, he emphasizes the satisfaction and fulfillment it provides. He contrasts the solitary nature of writing with the collaborative experience of rehearsing a play, highlighting the unique rewards of each.

Reflecting on his writing process, Everett admits with a touch of humor that he hasn't necessarily learned anything new about himself. However, he acknowledges the development of his tenacity, particularly through the arduous process of making his film "The Happy Prince." He describes the constant challenges and setbacks, but emphasizes his determination to persevere and bring the project to fruition.

Everett also candidly addresses the vulnerability and self-doubt that can creep in, particularly as one gets older. He compares aging to "careening downhill on a bicycle with worn down brake pads," acknowledging the potential for bitterness to set in. He emphasizes the importance of letting go of the past and constantly reinventing oneself as a means of navigating these challenges.

When asked about the films that inspired him as a young aspiring actor, Everett immediately mentions "Mary Poppins." He vividly recalls the impact of Julie Andrews's performance and the magical experience of watching the film in a grand provincial cinema. He describes the atmosphere as "epic," emphasizing the power of cinema to transport audiences to another world.

Everett also reveals a film he would have loved to be a part of: "Conclave," the adaptation of Robert Harris's book about the election of a new pope. He expresses a touch of envy at missing out on the opportunity, highlighting his passion for acting and his desire to explore diverse roles.

Surprisingly, Everett reveals his guilty pleasure: the Kardashians. He expresses a genuine interest in their lifestyle, from their homes and fashion to their business ventures. He admires Kris Jenner's entrepreneurial spirit and acknowledges the captivating nature of their reality show. He even playfully imagines himself as their personal shopper, suggesting his keen eye for luxury and style. While some might consider it an unexpected interest, Everett's appreciation for the Kardashians highlights his open-mindedness and his ability to find entertainment and intrigue in unexpected places. He emphasizes that he enjoys observing their world from a distance, preferring to watch their escapades on television rather than becoming a part of their inner circle.

Through his writing, acting, and candid interviews, Rupert Everett continues to captivate audiences with his wit, intelligence, and honesty. "The American No" offers a glimpse into his creative mind, showcasing his ability to find humor in rejection and inspiration in the world around him. From Oscar Wilde to the Kardashians, Everett's diverse interests and perspectives make him a truly compelling figure in the entertainment world.

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