Nick Frost Reveals Knitting Lessons for Hagrid Role and Tarantino's Cinema Tribute
In a candid interview, actor Nick Frost has shared intriguing insights into his career, including the unique preparation for his upcoming role as Hagrid in HBO's Harry Potter series. Frost disclosed that he took knitting lessons specifically for the part, a skill he now proudly claims to have mastered. This revelation highlights the dedication actors often bring to iconic characters, blending traditional crafts with modern filmmaking.
From Pies to Pastries: Frost's Culinary Confessions
When asked about his social media posts featuring pies, Frost offered a glimpse into his kitchen habits. He prefers keeping shop-bought shortcrust or flaky pastry on hand for convenience, rolling it out for double-crust creations. His go-to savoury pie involves slow-braised steak chunks with minced beef and roasted shallots, a family favourite served with chips for Saturday dinners. For sweet options, he enjoys apple and cinnamon pie with a Demerara sugar crust, though he humorously notes a preference for cherry pie made with what he calls "really shit fake filling."
Strictly Come Dancing and Salsa Skills
Frost addressed rumours about appearing on Strictly Come Dancing, revealing that he was considered after his role in Cuban Fury. However, he declined due to the extensive work required relative to the fee. He also expressed discomfort with how the show dresses larger contestants, comparing them to "a ball of satin" or Violet Beauregarde from Willy Wonka. Despite this, he confirmed he can still salsa, showcasing a mix of dance ability and personal principles.
Tarantino's Cinema and Unexpected Fame
A surprising anecdote emerged about Quentin Tarantino, who is a fan of Frost's character Ed from Shaun of the Dead. Frost recounted visiting Tarantino's cinema and seeing pictures of himself displayed in the foyer, a surreal experience for someone who grew up admiring the director's films like Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction. This connection underscores the unexpected ways fandom and professional respect intersect in Hollywood.
Manifesting Hagrid and Harry Potter Traditions
Frost detailed his journey to landing the role of Hagrid, noting that his partner suggested manifesting it. Last Christmas, he watched all the Harry Potter films back-to-back while writing "Hagrid" 7,000 times, a ritual that coincided with his family's annual holiday tradition of viewing the series. He has seen all the films, integrating them into festive routines, which adds a personal touch to his casting story.
Tattoos as Armour and Personal Struggles
Opening up about his tattoos, Frost explained that he started getting them in his mid-30s after a faint-inducing experience at age 20. Following his father's death when he was 40, tattoos became a way to transform spiritual pain into physical pain. Now at 53, with his upper body covered, he views them as a "suit of armour" that shifted focus away from his weight, helping him cope with past insecurities about his appearance.
Stage Fright and Future Aspirations
When questioned about performing Shakespeare on stage, Frost admitted to only one stage role in his 25-year career, finding it stressful despite enjoying it. He expressed a stronger passion for film and television, stating he would consider Shakespearean characters in those mediums. This preference highlights the diverse paths actors take in their artistic journeys.
Light-Hearted Banter and Career Reflections
Frost touched on various topics with humour, such as the stalled live-action remake of Captain Pugwash, which he attributed to funding issues and cultural misunderstandings. He also joked about being chained in Simon Pegg's shed, a playful nod to their long-standing collaboration. These moments add a relatable, down-to-earth quality to the interview, blending serious insights with witty asides.
Overall, Nick Frost's interview offers a multifaceted look at an actor navigating fame, personal challenges, and creative opportunities, from knitting for Hagrid to gracing Tarantino's cinema walls.
