Film & TV

From Rugby Star to Rom-Com Royalty: Why Nicholas Galitzine is Hollywood’s Next Big Thing

Nicholas Galitzine isn't your typical Hollywood heartthrob. Forget the child star beginnings or the years honing craft in drama school. This rising star's path to leading man is paved with rugby pitches until deciding to audition for a play in which some of his friends were performing, aiming to strengthen his connection with a girl he fancied, especially since the play was slated for the Edinburgh Film Festival.

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From Rugby Star to Rom-Com Royalty: Why Nicholas Galitzine is Hollywood’s Next Big Thing
In this guide
  1. 1The Idea of You – A Feel Good Rom-Com 
  2. 2Why Should You Watch The Idea of You?

Nicholas Galitzine isn’t your typical Hollywood heartthrob.

Forget the child star beginnings or the years honing craft in drama school.

Born in Hammersmith London, with Greek and Russian heritage, 29-year-old Galitzine’s early life was all about sports and he was more comfortable with a rugby ball than a script. Injuries, however, sidelined his athletic dreams, leaving a void that would be filled by something unexpected – acting.

One audition, and suddenly he was landing the lead role in a British indie film, The Beat Beneath My Feet (2014) portraying a social outcast with aspirations of rock stardom, who found an unexpected mentor in his neighbour, played by Luke Perry.

Nicholas Galitzine and Julianne Moore in Mary and George 2024 // Instagram @nicholasgalitzine

Look at his filmography, and you’ll see the range with consistent roles. From the dark and edgy bi-sexual teen in The Craft: Legacy (2020) to the charming prince in Cinderella alongside Camila Cabello (2021). 

Galitzine also appeared in Netflix gripping supernatural horror Chambers in 2019 starring Uma Thurman.

Nicholas Galitzine in Netflix’s Purple Hearts

He also rose to fame as a marine in the Netflix romance Purple Hearts in 2022 alongside Sofia Carson.

Last year Galitzine captivated audiences with his performance in Red, White & Royal Blue, an Amazon Prime adaptation of Casey McQuiston’s popular LGBTQ romance novel.

The story follows the covert romance between Prince Henry of Wales, portrayed by Galitzine, and Alex Claremont-Diaz, the son of the President of the United States, played by Zakhar Perez.

More recently, Galitzine featured in Mary & George, a riveting historical drama from Sky-Starz that delves into the captivating true tale of Mary Villiers.

In a daring bid to enhance their social status, Mary encourages her second-born son, George, to embark on a mission to seduce King James I.

Academy Award winner Julianne Moore brings her unparalleled talent to the role of the ambitious mother, while Galitzine takes on the pivotal role of George. 

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The sheer versatility of these roles proves Nicholas Galitzine (opens in new tab) isn’t afraid to take risks.

Nicholas Galitzine with Anne Hathaway in The Idea of You

This fearlessness is on full display in his brand-new film, The Idea of You. He plays Hayes Campbell, the 24-year-old lead singer of a wildly popular boyband who falls in love with a 40-year-old art gallerist.

The chemistry between him and co-star Anne Hathaway is undeniable, proving Galitzine can hold his own opposite Hollywood royalty.

Galitzine also does all his own singing and dancing as Hayes in The Idea of You and his character has been compared to Harry Styles

Galitzine’s appeal goes beyond his talent, however. There’s a refreshing honesty about him.

He talks openly about his journey, the self-discovery, and the constant quest to understand himself – a quality that endears him to audiences.

So, why is Nicholas Galitzine a rising star? It’s the perfect blend of talent, charisma, and a willingness to explore.

He’s not afraid to challenge himself, to defy expectations, and to bring a breath of fresh air to familiar genres. 

In a world saturated with predictable rom-coms, Galitzine stands out, reminding us that love stories can be surprising, complex, and utterly captivating.

Nicholas Galitzine is here to stay, and Hollywood is just getting a taste of what he can do.

Nicholas Galitzine as the first global menswear Fendi Ambassador in the Fendi FW23 campaign

The Idea of You – A Feel Good Rom-Com 

The weather doesn’t look so hot this long weekend so if you’re after a cosy, feel-good escape then try The Idea of You, a new release on Amazon Prime Video.

This heartwarming story is based on the acclaimed novel (opens in new tab) of the same name by Robinne Lee and stars Anne Hathaway as Solène, a divorced, single mother who finds herself falling for Hayes Campbell (Nicholas Galitzine), the lead singer of the hottest boy band, August Moon.

Nicholas Galitzine and Anne Hathaway in The Idea of You 2024 // Instagram @nicholasgalitzine

Why Should You Watch The Idea of You?

A Refreshing Age Gap Romance:  Solène and Hayes’ story explores the emotional complexities of love and desire that can blossom between two people in different stages of life.

Hathaway’s Endearing Performance:  Hathaway brings her signature charm and vulnerability to Solène, making her a relatable protagonist that viewers can easily root for.

Nicholas Galitzine’s Breakout Role: Galitzine delivers a captivating performance as the charismatic Hayes, showcasing his talent and charisma that will leave you wanting more.

The Idea of You is the perfect blend of humour, heart, and fantasy that will leave you smiling long after the credits roll. So cuddle up on the couch this weekend and get ready to be swept away by The Idea of You.

The Idea of You (opens in new tab) is streaming now on Amazon Prime Video.

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