Luke Hemsworth, the eldest of the Hemsworth brothers, opens up about his role in the new film Beast, his famous family, and the challenges of being a Hemsworth in Hollywood.
Playing the Dirtbag
In Beast, Hemsworth plays Gabriel, a dirtbag MMA fighter with a goatee. He says, 'Oh, that's all me. I'm channelling my inner dirtbag. He has some inadequacy issues. He's like a used car salesman; he looks fair and feels foul.' Hemsworth even kept one of his character's suits, which he wore to premieres.
Family and MMA
The Hemsworths are big fans of MMA and UFC. Luke has trained in boxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and muay thai for years. 'It was a big part of growing up in my household with my idiot brothers, being able to protect myself from the wild throws and kicks that they'd send my way,' he says. Every Sunday, the family gathers for UFC, often ending in wrestling matches. Luke jokes, 'Liam will tell you he's never been beaten at wrestling but don't believe a single word he says!'
Secret Talents
Luke recently landed a front flip on the trampoline in front of his 14-year-old daughter, who was amazed. 'I'm 45, mate!' he laughs.
Working with Russell Crowe
Despite making three films with Russell Crowe, Luke has never shared a scene with him. 'Bloody hell. I think I've missed out!' He praises Crowe as a champion of up-and-coming actors, recalling how Crowe saved 200 jobs during the production of Poker Face.
The Hemsworth Name
Being part of a famous family comes with assumptions. 'There's an assumption that life is easy if you have the Hemsworth name, that you're gonna get roles super easily. In my experience, it's actually been a lot more difficult, and it comes with a stigma,' Luke explains. He often gets mistaken for Liam, even being introduced as Liam at the Beast premiere.
Childhood Scars
Luke recalls being traumatised by The NeverEnding Story and The Exorcist. He also shares a story about adopting a dog from Linda Blair's rescue foundation.
Advice from Anthony Hopkins
Luke once had breakfast with Anthony Hopkins, who advised him, 'Fuck them! Do what you want. Why are you listening to that? Fuck them.' Luke says, 'I don't know if it's always worked out in my favour, but...'
Favourite Book Series
Luke recommends the Red Rising series by Pierce Brown, a sci-fi saga about Romans in space. He hopes to be involved in a potential TV adaptation.
Controversial Opinion
Luke quotes Dumb and Dumber: 'Senior citizens, although slow and dangerous behind the wheel, can still serve a purpose.'
Dream Pet
Luke would love to see a 20-foot-long grasshopper, inspired by the film Monsters. He also reveals his secret talent: taking macro photos of bugs.
Beast is in Australian and US cinemas now, streaming on Stan in Australia from 27 May, and on digital platforms in the UK from 1 June.
