Robert Pattinson responds to Chris Hansen’s 'Primetime' criticism

Robert Pattinson responds to Chris Hansen’s criticism of 'Primetime' and hopes the former host likes the film

Robert Pattinson has responded to Chris Hansen’s criticism of Primetime, saying he hopes the former To Catch a Predator host views the film as a compliment to his career.

Pattinson, who portrays Hansen in the upcoming A24 thriller, addressed the journalist’s concerns during a press conference following the film’s premiere at the Venice Film Festival. Hansen has previously criticised the project for using his name and portraying his career without consulting him.

“Obviously, I hope he likes the movie,” Pattinson said, adding that he had not initially set out to make a film about Hansen. After reading Lance Oppenheim’s script, however, the actor said he found the story “electrifying”.

Pattinson also praised Hansen’s presence on To Catch a Predator, the Dateline NBC segment that used hidden-camera investigations to confront adults accused of attempting to meet minors through online chat rooms. According to Pattinson, Hansen’s distinctive on-screen presence was a key part of the programme’s lasting impact.

“He’s doing something [that] is the reason why people are still talking about that show 20 years later,” Pattinson said.

Hansen has not yet seen Primetime in full but previously described Pattinson’s portrayal as a “pretty good imitation” while calling it overly dramatic. He has also said that he once developed a script about his career and believed actor Denis Leary would have been a good choice to play him.

Despite his concerns, Hansen has reportedly used the attention surrounding Primetime to promote his true-crime network, TruBlu, with advertisements appearing around screenings.

Directed by Oppenheim, Primetime also stars Merritt Wever, Skyler Gisondo, Phoebe Bridgers, Matthew Maher, Bokeem Woodbine and Anna Faris. The film is scheduled to hit theatres on September 25.