Why Jeremy Strong reached out to Mark Zuckerberg before playing him in ‘The Social Reckoning’

Jeremy Strong has revealed the extraordinary lengths he went to while preparing to play Mark Zuckerberg in Aaron Sorkin’s The Social Reckoning, including personally contacting the Meta founder after accepting the role.

Strong discussed the part in a new GQ profile, explaining that portraying Zuckerberg carried a significant responsibility because he was playing a real person who remains a major public figure. The actor said he wanted to understand Zuckerberg rather than approach the performance with a predetermined judgement.

"It’s the kind of role that fascinates me," Strong told GQ, describing the challenge of taking on a controversial figure. He said an actor playing Zuckerberg should not approach the character simply to condemn him, even while acknowledging the intense public criticism surrounding the Facebook co founder.

Strong confirmed that he emailed Zuckerberg after being cast. The actor said he wanted to communicate that he was taking the responsibility seriously and was concerned with presenting the character accurately. Zuckerberg replied, although Strong chose not to reveal the contents of the response.

The actor also undertook extensive research before and during production. He watched interviews, listened to podcasts, studied magazine appearances and viewed recordings of Zuckerberg speaking at technology events. Strong also watched footage of Zuckerberg testifying before Congress as part of his preparation.

Although Strong does not normally use social media, he created a Facebook account so he could examine Zuckerberg’s posts from the beginning. The research allowed him to follow how Zuckerberg presented himself publicly during the years between The Social Network and The Social Reckoning.

Strong also remained in character throughout production, continuing a Method acting practice that has become closely associated with his performances. Bradley Cooper, one of Strong’s friends, joked with GQ about the actor’s commitment, saying he had effectively spoken with Zuckerberg repeatedly even though Zuckerberg himself had never had that friendship with Strong.

The performance has already attracted divided reactions following the release of the first trailer for The Social Reckoning. Some viewers have speculated about another potential Oscar nomination for Strong, while others have predicted a Razzie nomination. Strong said he viewed the split reaction as an indication that he had taken a genuine creative risk.

The film follows Aaron Sorkin’s acclaimed 2010 film The Social Network, which starred Jesse Eisenberg as Zuckerberg. Eisenberg was asked to return for the new film but declined, saying he no longer wanted to be associated with the Facebook founder.

Strong also discussed his work on The Boys from Brazil, another demanding project that required an unusual commitment. While playing a Polish born Nazi hunter, he spent seven months speaking with a Polish accent. GQ reported that he continued using the accent outside filming, including during conversations with friends and colleagues.

Sorkin recalled receiving a call from Strong in character without any warning that the actor would be speaking as his character. Strong described staying within the character as part of his commitment to making the performance feel authentic.

The Social Reckoning is scheduled to open exclusively in cinemas on October 9, 2026. Sony Pictures has confirmed the theatrical release date.