IN CONVERSATION WITH RAY NICHOLSON
Numéro Netherlands proudly presents actor RAY NICHOLSON, gracing the cover of our 12th isuee Aurora. RAY just starred in Berk and Olsen’s action comedy film NOVOCAINE for Paramount, and in the lead role in comedy thriller BORDERLINE. He gained wide recognition for his role in horror film SMILE 2 in 2024, and was also seen in 2023 in a pivotal supporting role in Patricia Arquette’s directorial debut GONZO GIRL.
Interview with Ray Nicholson available in our latest print issue Aurora.
full look DIOR
boots TOM FORD
NOVOCAINE and BORDERLINE are two very different projects. What drew you to both roles, and what do they both mean for your rising career?
Good writing always comes first. Both projects, while very different, had directors who were great writers. Jimmy is a complete weirdo, with a heart of gold. BORDERLINE reflects his personality. Dan and Bobby are a fun-loving, machine-like duo. I believe films are always a reflection of their source, and I’m just happy to be in there, mixing it up with them. As far as what these films have done for my career, that remains to be seen. I’m certainly happy to have work out there that I’m really proud of. I cried watching the last shot in BORDERLINE. What a relief.
Interestingly enough, what has really happened in these past few weeks is I’ve become more attuned to discerning the difference between confidence and self-esteem, both as a person and as an actor. I have dreams, everyone has dreams. To have those types of dreams, you have to be confident. But self-esteem comes from showing up, doing the work, and letting go of the results. Trusting that the results will follow if you stay disciplined.
full look LOUIS VUITTON
Your performance in SMILE 2 earned you significant recognition in the industry. What do you think it was about this role that helped you stand out in such a competitive industry?
Certainly, my face helped me in SMILE 2. I obviously look a bit like my dad. Secret’s out, I am Jack Nicholson’s son. Proud to be. I had no idea I was going to be plastered on every street corner in America. That was a very funny prank by Parker. He said “Yeah, this is a little poster that will be in select theatres. But, a cool thing to have, man! Right?” Cut to being 40 feet high in Central Plaza. Pretty wild. But that only gets you so far.
Working with Naomi, even if just for that one scene, was one of the most fun and fulfilling acting experiences I’ve had. She’s so talented. And I got to hang around and just watch her and marvel. I hope we get to do it again, and this time at least be able to see each other for part of it, as there was an oscillating camera between us.
She’s had to answer a lot of questions about working with me, and my dad, and I’m sure that has been frustrating. She deserves all the shine in the world for that performance. I can’t wait to see what she does next, and I hope I’m a part of it. An amazing human being.
When preparing for a role, do you have any specific techniques or routines that help you get into character?
Everything begins and ends with the script, the story, and just being open. Things happen that can change your preparation, so you want to be as open to the source as possible. The only difference between art and any spiritual pursuit is deadlines. Until then, you want to be open to however the piece evolves as you evolve. Don’t hold on. Trust it.
What kind of roles and projects excite and challenge you the most creatively?
Every job is a challenge. My friend told me “Success isn’t necessarily the barometer for you. Your path is about conquering fear.” I get the opportunity to face my biggest fears, to feel insecure, to feel unworthy, and rise above it.
full look GIORGIO ARMANI
Coming from a film industry family, did you always know you wanted to act, or did you ever consider a different path?
As a kid, I had no sense of the industry. I just thought everything I was experiencing was normal. As I gained perspective, I realized things were not normal. I hated it. I wanted to be normal. I think that’s why I value the little things so much. It’s all I ever wanted, which is easy to say when you were given everything. It’s confusing. When I was a kid, I wanted to be an astronaut, which doesn’t take a rocket scientist to decipher the psychology behind that. But the other love my dad and I share is the love of sports. Too bad I have Irish genetics, great for lugging potatoes in a sack for long distances.
Hollywood has been evolving rapidly, with streaming platforms changing the game. How do you feel about the industry today and where it’s headed?
Hollywood is just a reflection of everything else. Times are weird. We’re living in a massive transitional period in technology, not unlike the Industrial revolution. People were scared and uncertain about the future then, and we are now. And that’s okay. This isn’t something Hollywood, or anyone, can control. I’m a major optimist, even when things look bleak. We’ve never made it this far before, and there are always unexpected game-changers. I choose to believe the future is bright.
full look TOD’S
full look TOD’S
sunglasses OLIVER PEOPLES
Are there any particular actors or filmmakers you’d love to collaborate with in the future?
I don’t think I’m at the point where I can shout out my heroes as potential future collaborators. Doesn’t feel right to me. I’m going to continue working, and hopefully I’m fortunate enough that someone sees something in me.
What’s been the highlight moment in your career so far, and why?
My dad stopped a conversation we were having to tell me I did great. And I could tell he meant it. And best of all, I was capable of hearing it. A simple chain. The little things.
When you are not on set, how do you enjoy spending your days off the most?
I try to do most of the things I do while I’m at home. Staying ready, keeping myself attuned to the source, and drawing inspiration. Movies, books, walks, exercise. Talking with friends, meeting new people, hanging with castmates.
full look ZEGNA
full look TOM FORD
What’s coming up next for you? Are there any upcoming projects you can share with us about?
I’m going to be away from home for six months. I’m working on a show, which may be top secret. I don’t know, I don’t want to cross the wrong people. And the next thing I’m most excited about is THE MOSQUITO BOWL, directed by Pete Berg. I couldn’t have asked for a better start to the year. I said while I was young I’d like to do a sports movie and a war movie, and we did it in one. I guess I’ve got some great people around me.
full look KING&TUCKFIELD
shoes VELASCA
sunglasses TOM FORD
TEAM CREDITS:
talent RAY NICHOLSON
photography SHANE MCCAULEY
styling CHRISTIAN STROBLE
grooming COLLEEN DOMINIQUE at THE WALL GROUP
styling assistant LINN TABUDLONG
casting TIMI LETONJA & JANA LETONJA
editor TIMI LETONJA
interview JANA LETONJA
cover design ARTHUR ROELOFFZEN
