Jacob Tremblay Tackles Ted Kaczynski Role in Gritty Netflix Film
The former child star, now 19, embodies the Unabomber in a psychological crime drama marking a significant career shift.
Jacob Tremblay, known for his early roles in films like "Room," "Good Boys," and "Wonder," has taken on a transformative role as terrorist Ted Kaczynski in the new Netflix film "Unabomber." Now 19, Tremblay's casting as the notorious figure represents a deliberate move away from his child star image and a concerted effort to explore more mature, challenging dramatic roles.
The psychological crime drama chronicles the life of Kaczynski, tracing his journey from a mathematically gifted Harvard prodigy to one of America's most elusive bombers. Tremblay described the film as "pivotal" in his career, noting its demanding nature and its ability to position him as a dramatic actor.
Born in Vancouver in 2006, Tremblay followed his sisters Erica and Emma into acting. His early career included commercials before his film debut in "The Smurfs 2" in 2013. At age eight, he gained widespread recognition for his performance as Jack Newsome in "Room," earning a Critics' Choice Movie Award and an Actor's Guild Award nomination. Subsequent roles in "Wonder" (2017) and "Good Boys" (2019) further solidified his status as a talented young actor.
His other credits include "The Last Man on Earth," "Before I Wake," "Shut In," "The Book of Henry," and a cameo in "Doctor Sleep." Director Mike Flanagan praised Tremblay's performance in "Doctor Sleep," calling it "horrifying" and noting its profound impact on his co-stars.
Tremblay also lent his voice to Robin in the animated series "Harley Quinn" and the titular character in Disney Pixar's "Luca." In 2023, at age 16, his appearance on the red carpet for "The Little Mermaid" garnered attention, highlighting his transition into adulthood.
Tremblay attributes his grounded upbringing to his parents, Jason and Christina, and his close-knit team, which he says allowed him to maintain a normal life alongside his burgeoning career. He likened his experience to that of "Hannah Montana," balancing a public persona with private life.
In "Unabomber," Tremblay stars alongside Russell Crowe, who plays the Harvard academic involved in controversial psychological experiments on a young Kaczynski. Tremblay expressed admiration for Crowe, stating he could channel his real-life respect for the actor into his portrayal of Kaczynski's admiration for his professor.
Looking ahead, Tremblay is set to appear in the stop-motion animated movie "Wildwood," as well as "The Skeleton Tree" and "The Night House," continuing to demonstrate the breadth of his acting capabilities beyond his early success.