December 26, 2024: Timothée Chalamet’s comment about wanting to play Ernie Johnson in a biopic is both surprising and endearing. It’s not the usual biopic role that people would expect from a rising star like Chalamet, but it’s exactly this kind of unique choice that has made him stand out in Hollywood. While he is currently set to portray Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown, the idea of him taking on the role of a beloved TV personality like Ernie Johnson is both intriguing and charming.
Ernie Johnson, with his colorful bow ties, thoughtful demeanor, and warm personality, is far removed from the typical roles one would associate with Chalamet. Yet, there’s something refreshing about Chalamet’s desire to portray someone like Johnson, whose influence and legacy extend beyond just the world of sports broadcasting. Johnson’s gentle presence on Inside the NBA, where he’s referred to as “The Godfather” by his colleagues Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Kenny Smith, speaks to his deep integrity, compassion, and humility. These are qualities that Chalamet could undoubtedly bring to life in his own distinctive way.
Chalamet’s pick also highlights his tendency to think outside the box when it comes to roles. He’s had a remarkable career, transitioning from indie films like Call Me by Your Name and Lady Bird to major blockbusters like Dune. It’s clear that he’s not just interested in the roles that would traditionally be offered to someone of his age and stature, but rather in the ones that challenge him and allow him to explore new dimensions of performance. His playful response on SiriusXM’s The Morning Mash Up—“You never know, he might already have a short list of people that I’m not on”—adds a layer of humility and wit to the whole idea.
Ernie Johnson’s life and career are filled with meaningful stories, both on and off the screen, from his work in sports to his incredibly moving family journey. Johnson’s story is one of resilience, kindness, and a deep connection with people, which would make for a compelling and emotional biopic. If Chalamet were to take on this role, he would need to tap into Johnson’s gentle, fatherly presence, while also portraying the resilience and strength Johnson showed throughout his life, particularly in his personal struggles with his son Michael, who had Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
While it may seem an unlikely pairing at first glance, Chalamet’s versatility as an actor means that he could pull off such a role. In fact, his ability to channel a wide range of emotions and his knack for immersing himself in deeply human stories makes him a fascinating choice for the job.
As for the timing of it all, the fact that this conversation is now “out in the universe” adds an extra layer of fun. It shows how quickly Chalamet’s spontaneous ideas can generate interest and conversation, with people already joking about the potential casting. Who knows? Maybe we’ll see Chalamet as Inside the NBA’s beloved “Godfather” someday—imagine the unexpected chemistry with Shaq, Barkley, and Kenny!
Chalamet’s journey to stardom has been shaped by his distinct choices, and it’s clear that even as he plays larger-than-life characters like Bob Dylan, he’ll continue to keep things interesting by considering roles that others might overlook. His willingness to embrace the unexpected is exactly what makes his career so exciting to watch.
