In the February 2024 issue of GQ, Alex Pappademas delves into the multifaceted world of Barry Keoghan, an actor who has rapidly risen to stardom, captivating audiences with his dynamic performances on and off the screen. The article explores Keoghan’s recent Hollywood achievements and the intriguing crossroads he faces in choosing his next career steps.
Barry Keoghan: The Unconventional Odyssey of Hollywood’s Shape-Shifting Maverick
Hoodie by Balenciaga. Jeans (throughout) by Magliano. Bracelet, his own. Necklaces (on top, and bottom two) by David Yurman. Necklace (second from top), his own. Necklace (third from top) by Miansai.
The piece begins with Pappademas’s attempt to meet Keoghan at a boxing club, only to find the actor already finished with his morning workout. The narrative then shifts to the rooftop pool deck at the Four Seasons, where Keoghan shares his thoughts on life in Los Angeles and his love for the mystic atmosphere of the city.
The article delves into Keoghan’s latest project, “Saltburn,” directed by Emerald Fennell, where he portrays Oliver, a character who disrupts the lives of an upper-class British family. Despite mixed reviews, Keoghan’s performance is hailed as phenomenal, drawing comparisons to iconic actors like Marlon Brando.
Pappademas explores Keoghan’s acting style, characterized by its fearlessly unsympathetic and honest portrayal of characters.
Colleagues such as Martin McDonagh and Colin Farrell commend Keoghan for laying bare the truth in his performances, emphasizing his ability to inhabit characters without attempting to make them likable.
The article also touches upon Keoghan’s role in “Eternals,” where he brings a unique and mercurial energy to the Marvel Universe. Director Chloé Zhao praises Keoghan’s unpredictability, stating that his presence injects a wildness into scenes that keeps them alive.
Keoghan’s latest project, “Saltburn,” has already become a cultural moment, and the on- and off-screen chemistry with co-star Jacob Elordi has sparked online fascination.
The article explores the actors’ playful dynamic and their willingness to play up their bromance, inviting comparisons to iconic duos like Keanu Reeves and River Phoenix.
As Keoghan steps into a new phase of his career with “Saltburn,” Pappademas notes the actor’s willingness to be seen as more than just a “little freak child-man.”
Keoghan acknowledges the shift in perception, expressing gratitude for being recognized as a leading man and embracing the opportunity to explore new roles beyond his earlier quirky characters.
The piece concludes with Keoghan’s lighthearted reflection on his evolving status, from the “little freak child-man era” to now being simply “Man. Freak-Man. Man-Freak.”
In this introspective and engaging profile, Pappademas captures the essence of Barry Keoghan’s journey and the intriguing path that lies ahead in his Hollywood career.
Get the new GQ February 2024 issue online now.
Written by @pappademas
Talent @keoghan92
Photographs by @jason_nocito_studio
Styled by @taylor__mcneill
Hair by @tomojidai using Oribe
Skin by @charlottewillermakeup at Home Agency
Set design by @rosie__turnbull
Pigeons provided by @berlonitheatricalanimals
Produced by @henstoothproductions
