A-List Actors Are Passing on Patrick Bateman in Guadagnino’s ‘American Psycho’ — Script Already Rewritten

A few weeks ago, I reported on how momentum behind Luca Guadagnino and Lionsgate’s reimagining of “American Psycho” has been steadily growing, but, as of now, I’m told they have yet to lock in an actor for the role.

Bret Easton Ellis, author of “American Psycho,” has let a few details slip on his podcast, including the fact that actors seem to be wary of taking on the role of Patrick Bateman.

A couple of high profile actors — whom I can’t name — have turned it down. I think maybe because they don’t want to be in the shoes of Christian Bale.

I can see that. Bale’s performance in “American Psycho” was incredible — a role he was born to play, and one that casts a long shadow over anyone who dares to follow. He perfectly balanced icy control with manic absurdity; Every gesture, smile, and monologue felt obsessively precise. It’s a cultural landmark of acting.

Ellis goes on to say that, again based on what he’s hearing, the initial script sent to the A-list actors who turned down the role may not have been up to par, which is why it has been rewritten, with a new draft now circulating.

As for how faithful the film will be to the source material and Harron’s movie, Ellis says to expect something “completely different.”

From what I’m told, this movie is completely different from Mary Haron’s 2000 movie. It’s a completely different take, and going to bear no resemblance to that movie.

Over the last two years, we’ve heard all sorts of names rumored to circle Patrick Bateman in Guadagnino’s “American Psycho,” including Austin Butler, who was far along in negotiations after Deadline reported he was circling the role. Apparently, he’s no longer involved.

Scott Z. Burns is adapting Ellis’ 1991 novel, which shocked readers with its graphic depictions of a Manhattan psychopath. Lionsgate is producing. The story remains the same: Bateman, an investment banker by day and a remorseless killer by night, juggling a meticulously curated life while indulging in violent fantasies after dark.

Guadagnino shot the Sam Altman biopic “Artificial” last June, which will likely hit in the fall, but “American Psycho” could very well be next — if he can manage to find the right actor to play Patrick Bateman.