Robert Pattinson reveals how he mastered Chris Hansen’s voice for 'Primetime'

Pattinson worked on capturing Hansen's specific cadence and delivery rather than attempting a conventional impression

Robert Pattinson has revealed how he mastered Chris Hansen’s distinctive voice for his role as the To Catch a Predator host in A24’s upcoming film Primetime.

Pattinson stars as Hansen in the new drama, which draws inspiration from the controversial television programme and its infamous host. Taking on the role required the actor to recreate Hansen’s recognisable voice, something Pattinson has described as particularly difficult to perfect.

The actor explained that Hansen’s voice presented a unique challenge because of the way he speaks. Pattinson worked on capturing the host’s specific cadence and delivery rather than simply attempting a conventional impression.

Pattinson’s portrayal has already attracted attention after footage from Primetime showed him closely resembling Hansen, both in appearance and mannerisms. Hansen himself has previously acknowledged Pattinson’s impression, describing it as a “pretty good imitation”.

Primetime follows Pattinson’s growing run of high-profile projects, with the actor taking on increasingly unconventional roles. The film is directed by Lance Oppenheim, who previously made the documentary series Ren Faire, and Pattinson is also involved as a producer.

The project has generated considerable interest because of its connection to To Catch a Predator, the NBC series in which Hansen confronted adults who had allegedly attempted to meet minors after communicating with undercover investigators online.

Hansen has previously expressed reservations about the film and its portrayal of events connected to his television career. He said he did not watch an early screening after claiming that A24 wanted him to sign away his rights.

Despite Hansen’s concerns, Pattinson’s performance has become one of the most closely watched aspects of Primetime. His effort to replicate Hansen’s voice adds another layer to a role that requires him to portray a real television personality with a highly recognisable public image.

The film is part of a busy period for Pattinson, who also stars in Kristoffer Borgli’s The Drama and Christopher Nolan’s upcoming The Odyssey.

With Pattinson taking on Hansen’s voice, appearance and mannerisms, Primetime is shaping up to be one of the actor’s most unusual roles yet as audiences prepare to see his interpretation of the television host on the big screen.