Hollywood has a new obsession and his name is Brandon Sklenar. The 35-year-old actor who stole hearts as the stoic cowboy Spencer Dutton in 1923 is about to shock audiences in a completely different role. In The Housemaid, hitting theaters December 19, he plays Andrew Winchester, a seemingly perfect husband caught in a twisted psychological game between his unstable wife played by Amanda Seyfried and their seductive new maid portrayed by Sydney Sweeney. But here’s the kicker: this wholesome looking guy transforms into an absolute lunatic by the film’s end, proving he has the range to play literally anyone. From growing up in a haunted hunting cabin in New Jersey to living in his car while chasing Hollywood dreams, from Taylor Sheridan giving him his big break to Sydney Sweeney personally fighting for his casting, Brandon’s journey is the stuff Hollywood legends are made of. Oh, and there’s serious buzz about him potentially becoming the next Batman. Ready to meet the actor everyone will be talking about in 2025? Let’s dive into everything that makes Brandon Sklenar the most exciting rising star in Hollywood right now.
The Housemaid Role That Changes Everything
Brandon Sklenar’s Andrew Winchester in The Housemaid represents a seismic shift from everything audiences know him for. The psychological thriller, directed by Paul Feig and based on Freida McFadden’s bestselling 2022 novel, follows Millie Calloway, an ex-convict played by Sydney Sweeney who takes a job as a live-in housemaid for the wealthy Winchester family.
Andrew initially appears to be the patient, enduring husband who stays calm when his wife Nina has complete meltdowns over handwritten PTA meeting notes. He seems like the stable one in the marriage, the reasonable voice trying to keep his clearly unstable wife together. Audiences will likely feel sorry for him at first, wondering how he deals with Nina’s erratic behavior.
But that’s exactly the trap. As the film progresses and secrets emerge, Andrew reveals himself to be something far more sinister. Without spoiling the colossal twist that upends the entire movie, Brandon gets to shed his nice guy image completely and embrace playing someone truly awful.
In his Esquire interview, Brandon described Andrew as the exact opposite of how anyone should be, calling him an absolute lunatic who’s having the time of his life being terrible. The role excited and scared him simultaneously because he’s usually so contained as an actor. The Housemaid finally gave him permission to paint with broad strokes, to be disruptive and unhinged in ways he’d never explored on screen before.
The character represents a deliberate mirror to Spencer Dutton’s perfect Hollywood masculinity. Where Spencer embodied noble cowboy values and restrained heroism, Andrew embraces moral corruption behind a facade of upper class respectability. The contrast couldn’t be more stark, and that’s precisely why Brandon wanted the role so badly.
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How Sydney Sweeney Made Sure Brandon Got Cast
Here’s a Hollywood story that will restore your faith in actors supporting actors. Sydney Sweeney didn’t just accept Brandon as her co-star in The Housemaid. She actively pushed for him to be cast in the role, using her considerable influence as both star and producer to make it happen.
Brandon revealed on the TODAY show that Sydney fought for his involvement in the project. This wasn’t a casual suggestion either. Sydney was determined to have Brandon play Andrew Winchester, seeing something in him that made him perfect for the twisted character despite his previous wholesome roles.
The casting choice proved inspired. The chemistry between Brandon, Sydney and Amanda Seyfried creates the volatile triangle at the film’s center. Their performances elevate what could have been a standard domestic thriller into something far more psychologically complex and entertaining.
Sydney’s advocacy also speaks to Brandon’s reputation among fellow actors. Despite being relatively new to major Hollywood productions, he’s earned respect from peers who recognize his talent and professionalism. When someone of Sydney’s stature goes to bat for you, it signals that you’re someone worth watching.
The mutual respect is evident in their press appearances and interviews. Both actors speak highly of working together, and their on-screen dynamic promises to be electric. Sydney’s instinct about Brandon’s suitability for the role will likely be validated when audiences see his performance.
The Taylor Sheridan Connection That Changed His Life
Before The Housemaid, before anyone outside hardcore Yellowstone universe fans knew his name, Taylor Sheridan gave Brandon Sklenar the opportunity that transformed his entire career. Landing the role of Spencer Dutton in 1923, the Yellowstone prequel series, represented Brandon’s big break after years of struggle.
In his Esquire interview, Brandon described the moment Sheridan offered him the role with visceral emotion. He was filming The Housemaid when the call came, and he had to fight back tears. Brandon will forever have immense love and gratitude for Sheridan, describing it as someone seeing what he was capable of before he knew it himself. According to Brandon, that just doesn’t happen in Hollywood.
The significance can’t be overstated. Taylor Sheridan is one of the most powerful creators in television, with the entire Yellowstone franchise under his control. Getting cast in a Sheridan production opens doors and provides legitimacy that few other opportunities can match. The shows are massive hits with devoted fanbases and critical respect.
As Spencer Dutton, Brandon portrayed a stoic cowboy navigating early 20th century challenges with rugged masculinity and understated heroism. The role required physical transformation, mastering horseback riding and weaponry, and embodying the Montana frontier spirit that defines the Yellowstone universe. Brandon delivered a breakout performance that made audiences fall in love with Spencer.
The Sheridan connection continues benefiting Brandon’s career. He’s been tapped for potential involvement in 1944, another Yellowstone prequel currently in development. While nothing is confirmed, the possibility of returning to the franchise that launched him would bring his journey full circle.
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The Haunted House Childhood That Shaped Him
Brandon Sklenar’s origin story reads like something from a dark coming-of-age film. Raised in Hopatcong, New Jersey, after his parents divorced, young Brandon was shuttled between homes, spending half the week with his mom and the other half with his dad. Eventually, he ended up living primarily in an old hunting cabin on Lake Hopatcong with his father and grandparents.
The cabin wasn’t just old. Brandon was convinced it was legitimately haunted. Growing up in that eerie environment while dealing with the instability of split custody created challenges that required serious therapy to work through as an adult. He’s been remarkably open about how those experiences messed with his sense of identity as a child.
But Brandon also recognizes those difficult years as a blessing in disguise. The constant adaptation between households, the disassociation from moving between different environments and family dynamics, all of it prepared him for the psychological demands of acting. Actors are constantly adapting, taking on different identities, and it can be genuinely disorienting without the right tools. Brandon had to figure those tools out early in life out of necessity.
His childhood also included being extremely disruptive in school. One teacher put a giant cardboard box around his desk to prevent him from talking to other students, creating what she called Brandonwood, a literal isolation prison. The experience of being singled out and contained like that left lasting impacts that Brandon has worked through therapeutically.
These formative experiences created depth and emotional intelligence that translates directly into his performances. He understands isolation, instability, and the masks people wear to survive challenging circumstances. That understanding makes his characters feel authentically human rather than just performances.
From Living In His Car To Hollywood Success
The journey from New Jersey to Hollywood success wasn’t smooth or glamorous. Like countless aspiring actors before him, Brandon moved to Los Angeles with dreams but no guarantees. The reality of trying to break into entertainment meant periods of legitimate struggle, including living in his car while auditioning and taking whatever work he could find.
This isn’t uncommon for actors starting out, but it’s also not something everyone survives. Many give up and return home. Others get stuck in survival mode, never catching the break that changes everything. Brandon persisted through the uncertainty and financial hardship, continuing to audition and improve his craft despite the harsh realities of trying to make it in Hollywood.
The contrast between those car-living days and his current position as a sought-after actor starring opposite A-list talent in major productions couldn’t be more dramatic. Brandon hasn’t forgotten where he came from or how easily his story could have ended differently. That gratitude and perspective keeps him grounded even as his profile rises exponentially.
His journey resonates with anyone who’s chased seemingly impossible dreams through difficult circumstances. The authenticity of having truly struggled adds weight to his success and makes audiences root for him even more. He’s not a nepo baby or someone who was handed opportunities. He earned every single one through persistence and talent.
The It Ends With Us Connection
Brandon’s 2024 included another high-profile project that showcased his range and sensitivity: It Ends With Us. In the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, he played Atlas Corrigan, the childhood friend and first love of Blake Lively’s character Lily who ultimately helps her escape an abusive marriage.
The role required tenderness, patience and representing healthy masculinity as counterpoint to Justin Baldoni’s abusive husband character. Brandon brought emotional depth to Atlas, making him feel like a genuine person rather than just an idealized savior figure. His chemistry with Blake Lively sold the idea that Lily would still feel connected to her first love years later.
Interestingly, Brandon has compared It Ends With Us to The Housemaid, noting that both book adaptations center on themes of domestic violence and abuse. But where It Ends With Us positioned him as the good guy helping someone escape toxicity, The Housemaid flips the script entirely, making him part of the problem. That range from supportive to sinister within the same thematic territory demonstrates his versatility.
The film became a significant commercial success despite behind-the-scenes drama and controversy. Brandon navigated the promotional period professionally, focusing on the story’s important themes about domestic abuse rather than getting pulled into off-screen conflicts. His conduct earned respect from industry observers and fans alike.
Why Everyone’s Whispering About Batman
The Batman rumors represent the ultimate sign that Brandon has arrived as a legitimate movie star contender. During his TODAY show appearance, he was directly asked about potentially being the next Batman, and his response was perfect: calling it a dream role while not confirming or denying anything concrete.
The speculation makes sense for several reasons. Brandon has the looks, the physicality developed through roles like Spencer Dutton, and increasingly the acting credibility to tackle such an iconic character. He’s proven he can carry major productions, work within established universes like Yellowstone, and bring psychological complexity to characters that could otherwise feel one dimensional.
DC and Warner Bros are perpetually searching for their next Batman as different actors cycle through the role for various projects and timelines. They need someone who can commit long term, handle the physical demands, and bring fresh interpretation while respecting the character’s legacy. Brandon checks those boxes.
The timing also works. He’s at the perfect career stage where becoming Batman would elevate him to superstar status without feeling like a desperate grab for relevance. He’s built credibility through quality work in prestige television and film, making him a more intriguing choice than someone without his track record.
Whether the rumors pan out or not, the fact that his name is circulating for such a massive role indicates how much his profile has risen. These conversations happen around actors Hollywood believes can open movies and carry franchises. Brandon has entered that elite conversation.
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The Paul Feig Collaboration On The Housemaid
Director Paul Feig brings his own pedigree to The Housemaid, having helmed hits like Bridesmaids, Spy and A Simple Favor. His involvement signals that this isn’t just another forgettable thriller churned out for streaming. Feig knows how to balance suspense, dark comedy and strong female characters while keeping audiences thoroughly entertained.
Brandon praised how Feig and the team stayed true to Freida McFadden’s source novel while elevating it and turning everything up to 11. The book already contained twists and psychological gamesmanship that made it a viral sensation and New York Times bestseller. Translating that to screen required enhancing the most shocking elements while maintaining narrative coherence.
Feig’s direction allows Brandon to fully embrace Andrew’s transformation from seemingly stable husband to unhinged antagonist. The filmmaker creates space for actors to take risks and make bold choices, which results in performances that feel unrestrained and exciting. For an actor like Brandon who’s usually contained, that directorial approach unlocked new possibilities.
The collaboration between Feig’s vision, the stellar cast, and the twisted source material creates a perfect storm for a breakout thriller. Early buzz suggests the film delivers on its promises of shocking twists, seductive danger, and psychological complexity that keeps audiences guessing until the final frame.
What Critics Are Saying About His Performance
Early reviews for The Housemaid have been mixed overall, but most acknowledge the film’s entertainment value and the cast’s commitment. Regarding Brandon specifically, opinions vary based on what critics expected from the role.
The New York Times noted that Brandon’s character seems conventionally attractive and patient on the surface but lacks depth initially, with his secrets feeling somewhat implausible when revealed. However, they acknowledged this fits the film’s fantasy premise where egregious behavior faces consequences.
Roger Ebert’s site mentioned Brandon as Andrew Winchester in the context of the twisted family dynamic, positioning him as the husband who can calm Nina’s significant meltdowns while taking more than passing interest in the new housemaid. His role as the man caught between two women drives the central conflict.
Other critics have focused more on Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried’s performances, which makes sense given they’re the leads. But Brandon holds his own in a film dominated by two powerhouse actresses, no small feat for an actor still establishing himself in Hollywood’s hierarchy.
The varied critical response to the film itself shouldn’t overshadow Brandon’s accomplishment in tackling such a different role from his previous work. Even critics who found the movie flawed generally acknowledged the cast’s efforts to make the material work.
The 1944 Possibility And Yellowstone Future
Brandon’s potential involvement in 1944, another Yellowstone prequel focusing on an earlier generation of the Dutton family, represents exciting continuation of his relationship with the franchise. While nothing is officially confirmed, the possibility has been discussed in interviews and fan speculation runs rampant.
The timing would work well. With 1923 potentially wrapping up its story, jumping to 1944 for the World War II era would provide natural narrative progression through Dutton family history. Brandon could potentially appear as Spencer again if the timeline aligns, or take on a different role within the expanded universe.
Taylor Sheridan’s continued interest in working with Brandon suggests the door remains open for future collaborations. Their creative partnership clearly works, producing performances that resonate with audiences and critics. Sheridan has built a stable of actors he returns to repeatedly, and Brandon has earned a place in that repertoire.
The Yellowstone universe shows no signs of slowing down despite the main series concluding. Paramount has massive investment in keeping the franchise alive through prequels, spin-offs and continuation series. Brandon’s involvement in any capacity would be welcomed by fans who fell in love with Spencer Dutton.
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The Versatility That Sets Him Apart
What makes Brandon Sklenar genuinely special isn’t just his looks or even his individual performances. It’s the demonstrated range that proves he can disappear into wildly different characters without losing authenticity. From stoic cowboy to abused woman’s savior to twisted husband, he’s shown versatility that many actors twice his age haven’t achieved.
That versatility is intentional and carefully cultivated. Brandon spoke to Esquire about not wanting to flex too much showing off his range, recognizing that some actors get so caught up proving they can do everything that it takes audiences away from the story and the humanity of characters. He seeks balance between showing his capabilities and maintaining focus on truthful performance.
This self-awareness and artistic maturity suggest Brandon will continue making smart career choices rather than chasing every high-profile opportunity. He understands the long game, building a career on quality and consistency rather than fleeting fame. That approach tends to result in longevity and respect in an industry notorious for chewing up and spitting out talented people.
His upcoming projects will test whether he can sustain momentum and continue surprising audiences. The Housemaid serves as statement piece announcing his arrival as a serious actor capable of leading major films. What comes next will determine if he becomes this generation’s defining leading man or just another actor who had a moment.
Why The Housemaid Matters For His Career Trajectory
The Housemaid represents pivotal moment in Brandon’s career for several reasons. First, it’s his first true leading role in a theatrical release. While 1923 made him famous on television, carrying a film requires different skills and exposes actors to different audience segments.
Second, the December 19 release date positions the film as counter-programming during the crowded holiday season. Psychological thrillers targeted at adult audiences fill specific niche that family friendly holiday fare doesn’t satisfy. If The Housemaid succeeds commercially, Brandon gets credit for opening a movie, one of Hollywood’s most valued metrics.
Third, the role itself demonstrates range that could unlock entirely new categories of parts. Directors and casting agents will see him differently after watching him play Andrew Winchester, understanding he can go dark and twisted when material demands it. That expands his possibilities exponentially.
Fourth, working with established stars like Amanda Seyfried and rising superstars like Sydney Sweeney connects him to their networks and fanbases. These relationships lead to future opportunities and collaborations. Hollywood runs on relationships, and Brandon is building all the right ones.
Finally, the film’s source material being a bestselling book means built-in audience awareness and expectations. Successfully adapting beloved books is challenging, but when it works, actors benefit from association with properties readers already love. Brandon becomes linked to The Housemaid in ways that extend beyond just this one film.
So there you have it. Everything you need to know about Brandon Sklenar, the 35-year-old actor about to become a household name. From haunted childhood homes to Hollywood red carpets, from Taylor Sheridan’s cowboys to Paul Feig’s psychological thrillers, from living in his car to Batman rumors, his journey is just getting started and it’s already legendary. The Housemaid hits theaters December 19, and it’s your chance to watch a star being born in real time. Will he be the next big thing or just another flash in the pan? Based on everything we’ve seen, bet on the former. What do you think? Is Brandon Sklenar Hollywood’s next leading man? Would he make a good Batman? Drop your predictions in the comments and let’s discuss! Tag your friend who’s already planning their opening weekend ticket. Follow for more Hollywood news, rising star profiles, and all the entertainment industry tea that keeps life interesting. Because if 2025 taught us anything, it’s that new stars can emerge from anywhere, and sometimes the most interesting journeys are the ones we get to watch unfold in real time!
