Duke Nicholson Takes Center Stage in Gritty Crime Thriller
Duke Nicholson, the grandson of Hollywood legend Jack Nicholson, is stepping into the spotlight with his first leading role in the crime thriller The Deputy. The film, directed by his longtime friend Matt Sukkar, is set to captivate audiences with its darkly comedic narrative and an eclectic ensemble cast, including William H. Macy, Tiffany Haddish, and Julia Fox.
For nearly a decade, the 26-year-old Nicholson has quietly navigated the film industry, cultivating his passion for acting and directing while developing a deep appreciation for classic cinema. His journey has seen him appear in various unexpected roles, from modeling on the cover of Lana Del Rey‘s acclaimed album Norman Fucking Rockwell! to acting in projects like Jordan Peele‘s Us.
With The Deputy, Nicholson plays Toby Sawyer, a part-time lawman who finds himself embroiled in a chaotic night of small-town corruption. The film, based on Victor Gischler‘s novel and written by Carlo Bernard, known for his work on Narcos, follows Sawyer’s frantic attempts to track down a missing corpse after a night of unexpected events.
A Passion for Film and an Influential Legacy
Nicholson’s path to acting was not predetermined by his family’s legacy. He recalls, “I didn’t really think about it as a career path until I was probably 15 or 16.” Initially aspiring to direct, he began acting when peers in high school film classes invited him to participate in their projects. This led to a series of auditions and eventually to significant roles that began to establish his presence in the industry.
The collaboration with Sukkar on The Deputy stemmed from a friendship formed during the Sundance Film Festival, where they both supported their peers’ films. After living together and sharing creative aspirations, Sukkar presented Nicholson with the script, excited to offer him a leading role. “What appealed to me was the grittiness of it,” Nicholson explained, noting its chaotic, one-night-in-the-city feel reminiscent of films like Martin Scorsese‘s After Hours.
While frequently asked about his grandfather, Nicholson emphasizes the importance of cultivating his own unique voice. He shares that Jack Nicholson’s advice has always been about “developing your own material” and being involved in various aspects of filmmaking. This principle has guided him as he embarks on his creative journey.
Character Development and Future Aspirations
Nicholson’s approach to his character in The Deputy involves exploring the growth of Toby Sawyer, who is thrust into a chaotic situation that tests his abilities. “He’s a part-time cop who doesn’t look or act like a cop,” he described, highlighting the character’s unexpected evolution throughout the film. This exploration of character resonates with audiences in a way that reflects the unique storytelling style of the Coen brothers.
As he looks to the future, Nicholson remains focused on writing and directing his own projects. “I’m almost done with a script I want to direct myself,” he stated, emphasizing his desire to act in films he directs. His admiration for John Cassavetes, a pioneer of independent cinema, reflects his aspiration to create authentic and impactful narratives.
In addition to his film endeavors, Nicholson occasionally dabbles in modeling, having gained attention for his appearance on the cover of Lana Del Rey‘s album. While he appreciates the opportunities, he prefers to focus on his true passion for film, spending much of his time watching classic movies at local theatres in Los Angeles.
As The Deputy prepares for its festival debut in 2026, Duke Nicholson is poised to carve out his own niche in the film industry, carrying forward the legacy of his grandfather while establishing his distinct identity as an actor and director.
