Ever since the release of Casey Mcquiston’s groundbreaking YA novel, “Red, White and Royal Blue,” the anticipation of its silver screen adaptation reached fever-pitch. And when the moment arrived, Nicholas Galitzine, alongside Taylor Zakhar Perez, successfully captivated hearts worldwide, portraying the complexity and charm of the “Sweetheart of Britain,” Prince Henry.
Galitzine’s Humble Beginnings
Nicholas Galitzine’s breakthrough came in 2017 with the Irish coming-of-age film, “Handsome Devil.” Despite following a predictable high school plotline, Galitzine’s portrayal of Conor, a rugby player wrestling with his sexuality, brought depth and nuance to an otherwise stereotypical role. His chemistry with co-star Finn O’Shea (playing his roommate Ned) beautifully underscored the highs and lows of teenage identity struggles. The film highlighted Galitzine’s ability to bring out the subtleties in his characters, setting the stage for greater roles.
Galitzine’s Diverse Roles Post ‘Handsome Devil’
Galitzine’s versatility was further showcased in 2020’s “The Craft: Legacy,” where he played Timmy – a jock transformed by a spell into a respectful and self-aware young man. His poignant coming-out scene and the character’s personal revelations highlight Galitzine’s nuanced portrayal of young men struggling with societal expectations around masculinity and sexuality.
This multifaceted actor then took a lighter turn, serenading audiences as Prince Robert in Prime Video’s “Cinderella” (2021). His portrayal provided a fresh take on royalty, blending the weight of expectation with romantic charm.
Galitzine in ‘Red, White, and Royal Blue’
In “Red, White, and Royal Blue,” Galitzine’s portrayal of Prince Henry is an artful culmination of his previous roles. Prince Henry’s battle between his public facade and true self, amplified by the magnifying lens of royalty, allows Galitzine to weave the layers of all his past characters into one.
Just like Conor in “Handsome Devil,” Prince Henry wears a mask to navigate societal expectations. Yet, beneath that polished veneer lies a vulnerability and yearning for genuine connection. Galitzine’s mastery in embodying such nuanced characters can be traced back to his initial foray into films like “Handsome Devil.”
In Conclusion
Nicholas Galitzine’s journey from portraying Conor in “Handsome Devil” to Prince Henry in “Red, White, and Royal Blue” is a testament to his skill and versatility as an actor. He consistently brings depth, understanding, and human touch to his characters, enabling audiences to connect with them on a profound level. His past roles have paved the way for the success of his portrayal of Prince Henry, proving that sometimes, to truly appreciate the present, one must acknowledge the past.
