Arty Froushan Takes on Exciting New Role in London’s Production of ‘American Psycho’
Arty Froushan Takes on the Role of Patrick Bateman in American Psycho Revival
Arty Froushan, known for his portrayal of Buck Cashman in Marvel’s Daredevil: Born Again, is set to portray serial killer Patrick Bateman in a revitalized production of the musical adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’s American Psycho. The show will debut at the Almeida Theatre in London, with performances scheduled from January 22 to March 14, 2026.
This revival marks a return to the Almeida, where the musical first premiered in 2014 under the direction of Rupert Goold. The original production featured Matt Smith, who portrayed the impeccably dressed investment banker harboring a dark penchant for violence. Benjamin Walker also starred in a Broadway version that ran briefly in 2016.
Reflecting on his acting career, Froushan noted that he often plays complex, psychologically intense characters. "Sympathetic, twisted characters, so in some senses, this role feels, it’s scary to say, a natural fit," he remarked. He emphasized the similarities between his roles, stating, "In Daredevil: Born Again, I’ve been playing essentially an assassin who’s mildly sociopathic."
Froushan’s experience extends beyond playing psychopaths; he recently portrayed playwright Noël Coward in Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale and has a diverse theatrical background that includes singing in college productions. Despite expressing some trepidation about his upcoming musical role, he confirmed, "I can hold a tune," attributing his preparation to prior experiences and recent vocal training.
In preparation for the audition, Froushan sang a selection from Duran Duran’s "Ordinary World." Subsequently, he juggled filming Daredevil with rehearsing for his role in American Psycho. Goold, who is in his final season as artistic director of the Almeida, told Froushan humorously, "You’ll never escape the ’80s," as both productions are steeped in the same era.
Froushan’s portrayal commenced with his role in Leopoldstadt, a project he described as enriching, taking nearly two years of his career. "I feel like I’m native to the stage," he said. "If I spend too long away from the stage, I feel like I lose a sense of what I am about as an actor."
Having grown up in the UK and honing his craft in various productions, Froushan’s experiences have influenced his preparation for Bateman. "New York is like a protagonist in the story of American Psycho," he noted, pointing out the vivid backdrop of Manhattan as instrumental to his character understanding.
Froushan elaborated on the psychological depth of Bateman, asserting that the character resonates in today’s socio-political landscape. "It’s always been relevant, but this notion of truth … in this post-truth society … has made it a bit more relevant," he explained.
The upcoming revival of American Psycho is anticipated to blend elements of comedy, drama, and philosophical inquiry. Froushan expressed excitement, stating, "It’s such an amazing cocktail of a show. I can’t wait to peel away the layers."
The production also features a talented cast, including Emily Barber, Daniel Bravo, and Kim Ismay, with a creative team comprising prominent designers and directors.
