Armie Hammer-American Psycho controversy explained

Armie Hammer’s fall from grace happened rapidly after a slew of shocking allegations, including sexual abuse and even claims of cannibalism and BDSM. Surprisingly, these very allegations have led some fans to believe he would be the ideal choice for the lead role in an adaptation of American Psycho, directed by the acclaimed Luca Guadagnino.

Guadagnino, who recently directed the thrilling film Challengers, is reportedly in the final stages of negotiations for a new project based on Bret Easton Ellis’s 1991 novel. This adaptation is set to be an interpretation rather than a straightforward remake. Sam Pressman will be executive producing the film through Pressman Film, and it will be scripted by Scott Z. Burns, known for his work on films like The Bourne Ultimatum, Contagion, and The Report. Adam Fogelson, the Chairman of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating:

“We are thrilled to add another elite filmmaker to our upcoming slate. Luca is a brilliant artist and the perfect visionary to create a whole new interpretation of this potent and classic IP.”

Since the announcement, speculation has arisen about who will portray the character of Patrick Bateman, the suave yet disturbed serial killer. Christian Bale famously embodied Bateman in the 2000 film adaptation directed by Mary Harron. However, many have pointed to Armie Hammer, 38, as a strong candidate due to his previous collaboration with Guadagnino on the acclaimed 2017 film Call Me By Your Name, alongside Timothée Chalamet.

Some fans have commented on social media, suggesting that Guadagnino might be eager for a chance to work with Hammer again, seeing it as an opportunity for a redemption arc. One user remarked, “Oh you know Luca was praying for a redemption arc to be able to work with his BFF.” Others expressed that Hammer could bring the perfect blend of charm and menace to the role, with one fan saying, “He would be the perfect amount of terrifying and sexy playing a serial killer.” Another noted that the film could serve as a significant comeback for Hammer, with comments like, “He was so perfect as the sociopath boss in Sorry to Bother You, I’m here for this!”

Fans have even suggested that Hammer’s deep voice would suit Bateman well, and one user proposed that some of Hammer’s alleged text messages—where he referred to himself as a cannibal—could be incorporated into the script. These messages reportedly contained graphic details of violent sexual fantasies, including lines like, “I am 100% a cannibal. I want to eat you.”

In February 2021, Hammer faced serious accusations from his former girlfriend, Effie Angelova, who claimed he violently sexually assaulted her. Hammer has denied these allegations, asserting that all his sexual encounters were consensual. While he was investigated, he did not face criminal charges. Earlier this year, he publicly denied the cannibalism claims and abuse allegations during an interview with Piers Morgan, which sparked outrage from Angelova, who shared screenshots of his messages.

In a now-deleted Instagram post, Hammer stated that he is focused on moving forward with his life and is prepared for what he described as a “long, difficult process” of rebuilding after being cleared of the allegations. A lead role in Guadagnino’s American Psycho adaptation could potentially help him regain a foothold in Hollywood. But casting him as a serial killer? It seems almost too fitting given the circumstances.