Who Plays Uncle Nicky On This Is Us
Okay, picture this: You're watching This Is Us, sobbing (naturally), and wondering, "Who is that amazing, slightly grumpy, but secretly soft-hearted Uncle Nicky?" Well, buckle up, because the answer might surprise you. It's not just one person, but two!
Yep, Uncle Nicky has two actors who bring him to life: a younger version and an older version. Let's dive into the story behind each one.
The Young Nicky: Michael Angarano
First up, we have Michael Angarano, the guy who embodies the young, vibrant, and troubled Nicky Pearson during the Vietnam War era. He nails the awkwardness and the internal battles, making you feel deeply for his character.
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Angarano is probably recognizable from a ton of stuff! He's been acting since he was a kid, popping up in movies like Sky High and shows like Will & Grace. He brings a certain vulnerability to the role that makes young Nicky so compelling.
But here's a fun fact: he's actually dating his This Is Us co-star, Maya Erskine (who plays Nicky's eventual love interest, Sally!). Talk about art imitating life, huh?
The Older Nicky: Griffin Dunne
Now, let's talk about the seasoned pro who brings us the older, wiser (but still a little rough around the edges) Nicky Pearson: Griffin Dunne. This is where things get really interesting.
Griffin Dunne is a legend! He's been in everything from An American Werewolf in London to After Hours, showing off a range that is truly impressive. He's also a director and producer, making him a real jack-of-all-trades in Hollywood.
The casting of Dunne as the older Nicky was genius. He brings a weariness and a world-weariness to the character. He has this knack for conveying so much emotion with just a single glance.
Why Two Actors?
Why did This Is Us decide to use two different actors for Nicky? Well, mostly it's due to the time jumps in the series. Using different actors allows for a more believable portrayal of the character's aging journey and the different phases of his life.
Think about it: Young Nicky is a man grappling with war and inner demons. Older Nicky is a man who's been trying to put the pieces of his life back together for decades. Those are very different energies.
Having two actors also gives them flexibility in storytelling. They can show flashback scenes from different time periods without having to rely solely on makeup and prosthetics to age or de-age one actor.
The Magic of This Is Us
Ultimately, the combined performances of Michael Angarano and Griffin Dunne are what make Uncle Nicky such a beloved character on This Is Us. They both bring something special to the role.
Angarano shows us the vibrant young man Nicky once was, full of potential and haunted by his experiences. Dunne portrays the man he became: scarred, lonely, but still capable of love and connection.
So, the next time you see Uncle Nicky on screen, remember the two talented actors who bring him to life. They're both essential to the emotional depth and complexity of this unforgettable character. Prepare for those waterworks!
"He was this older guy with a beard who was super lonely. He reminded me of all the people in my life that I love and care about." - Griffin Dunne on playing older Nicky
