Sebastian Stan on Playing Politically Polarizing Characters

Sebastian Stan is set to star as Mihai Gheorghiu, a conservative Christian immigrant, in the upcoming drama "Fjord," opening in U.S. theaters on October 9. Stan, who has publicly supported gay rights and criticized Donald Trump, also played a young Trump in the 2024 biopic "The Apprentice." He explained that he is drawn to roles that challenge his understanding and present complex subject matter.

"I’m drawn toward subject matters that I feel I don’t personally understand, right away," Stan told Decider in a recent interview. "Characters I don’t understand, that feel complicated, or that feel like [they] need to be understood, in order to be processed better."

"Fjord," written and directed by Cristian Mungiu, is inspired by the true story of a Romanian family in Norway whose children were removed by child protective services after the parents admitted to spanking them. Stan's character, Mihai, moves his family from Romania to Norway, where his wife, played by Renate Reinsve, is from.

Stan, who recently became a father, noted that the film's exploration of parenting resonated with him. "I look back at how I grew up—looking at the things I took from my parents and wondering which have been very helpful, and [which] I’m still working to sort of get rid of or get through," he said. "When you have kids, you’re put in this situation where, if you’re aware enough, you have to ask yourself, ‘OK, what’s best for them? How can I put my ego aside?’"

The actor also discussed his connection to the Romanian language and culture, noting that he is fluent and speaks with his mother regularly. He described the film as an opportunity to reconnect with his Romanian heritage.

Regarding his role in "The Apprentice," Stan stated that "The Apprentice," like "Fjord," presented a complex narrative that prompted difficult questions about societal norms and personal beliefs. He is drawn to filmmakers who he believes are "fearless" and willing to explore timely and challenging themes.

"For me, with this movie, trying to at least see how some of the ways [of parenting] that work, or don’t work, are highlighted felt essential," Stan added, reflecting on the film's examination of child-rearing practices and cultural differences.

Fans also inquired about his Marvel character, Bucky Barnes. Stan confirmed he reunited with the cast for "Avengers: Doomsday," describing the experience as nostalgic and the cast as a family, though he has not yet seen the finished film.