Benjamin Walker to star in American Psycho on Broadway

It has now been confirmed that Benjamin Walker will indeed star as Patrick Bateman in the Broadway premiere of the musical adaptation of American Psycho. Previews will begin on 19 February 2016 at a Shubert theatre yet to be named, before an official opening on 21 March.

Director Rupert Goold released the following statement:

"I've been a huge fan of Ben's work on stage and screen and am really looking forward to working with him on American Psycho. He is an enormous talent and I think audiences will be utterly seduced by his dangerous charisma and extraordinary stage presence. He'll make a killer Patrick Bateman."

"Ever since Ben ignited the musical theatre with his startling and superb performance in Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson, I had hoped to work with him again. When Jerry Frankel and I were offered the opportunity to join David Johnson and Jesse Singer of Act 4 Entertainment in presenting American Psycho, my first thought was that the most charismatic and sexy actor for the role of Patrick Bateman would be...Benjamin Walker. The gift of collaborative partners is that we were all in agreement...and so for that matter, as I found out, was the entire creative team."

Synopsis: "Living the high life in 1980s Manhattan, Patrick Bateman has it all - looks, money, style and status. He and his entourage buy the most expensive designer clothes, eat at the most exclusive restaurants and party at the hottest clubs. But privately, Patrick indulges in another kind of transgression. And people - including those closest to him - keep disappearing."

American Psycho is produced on Broadway by Act 4 Entertainment (David Johnson & Jesse Singer), Jeffrey Richards, and Jerry Frankel in cooperation with Edward R. Pressman.

Additional casting will be announced at a later date.

Rupert Goold also directed the London premiere at the Almeida Theatre in 2013, where 'Dr Who' star Matt Smith starred as protagonist Patrick Bateman.

Bret Easton Ellis' novel was first published in 1991, and was made into a successful film in 2000 starring Christian Bale. The musical version opened at London's Almeida Theatre to a sell out run and mixed-to-positive reviews. Directed by Artistic Director of the Almeida, Rupert Goold, the production was part funded by a Kickstarter campaign, giving members of the public an opportunity to financially back the musical.

Benjamin Walker last appeared on Broadway as Brick in 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' in 2013. Other Broadway credits include 'Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson,' 'Les Liaisons Dangereuses,' and 'Inherit the Wind.' His screen credits include 'Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter,' 'Flags of Our Fathers,' 'Kinsey,' and 'The War Boys.'

- by Tom Millward