Big news dropped today, May 3, 2025, and it’s got me buzzing—Patrick Schwarzenegger is campaigning hard to star as Patrick Bateman in Luca Guadagnino’s upcoming American Psycho adaptation for Lionsgate! The White Lotus actor took to social media to share his enthusiasm, and honestly, I can’t stop thinking about how perfect he might be for the role. Let’s dive into why Schwarzenegger’s making waves, what this new adaptation might look like, and why I’m rooting for him to step into those iconic (and blood-stained) shoes.
Schwarzenegger’s Passion for Patrick Bateman
At 1:45 PM IST today, the internet lit up with news of Schwarzenegger’s latest move. After a fan on X suggested he’d be perfect as Patrick Bateman, the 31-year-old actor replied, “I’d love nothing more ;)” with a winking emoji. This isn’t the first time he’s thrown his hat in the ring—back in October 2024, when the project was announced, he called playing Bateman “my dream.” And if that wasn’t enough, fans are pointing out a 2021 Vanity Fair photoshoot where Schwarzenegger channeled Bateman, rocking the slicked-back hair and tailored suits with eerie precision. It’s clear this role means a lot to him, and I love seeing an actor so openly passionate about a dream gig!
Schwarzenegger’s been on a roll lately. Fresh off his acclaimed role in HBO’s The White Lotus Season 3, which wrapped up recently, he’s been earning praise for his range. He’s also popped up in projects like Gen V and American Sports Story, showing he can handle everything from drama to thriller vibes. But playing Patrick Bateman—a Wall Street yuppie with a dark, murderous double life—would be a whole new level. It’s a role that demands charisma, intensity, and a chilling edge, and I think Schwarzenegger might just have what it takes.
A Fresh Take on a Cult Classic
For those who don’t know, American Psycho is based on Bret Easton Ellis’ 1991 novel, a satirical horror story that dives deep into 1980s yuppie culture, materialism, and psychopathy. The 2000 film, directed by Mary Harron and starring Christian Bale, became a cult classic, with Bale’s portrayal of Patrick Bateman as an unhinged investment banker-turned-serial killer etched into pop culture history. But Guadagnino’s version isn’t a remake—it’s a new adaptation of the novel, with a script by Scott Z. Burns (Contagion). At CinemaCon last month, Guadagnino teased that the script is shaping up “very handsomely” and hinted at conversations with “exciting performers” for the leads.
Guadagnino, known for films like Call Me by Your Name, Challengers, and Queer, is a director who loves to put his own spin on things. His 2018 Suspiria remake was a bold departure from the original, and I’m expecting something just as unique here. The original American Psycho leaned heavily into 1980s aesthetics—think Huey Lewis and the News, slick suits, and business card flexes—but Guadagnino might shift the setting or tone. Some fans online are speculating a modern-day take, while others wonder if he’ll amplify the erotic undertones he’s known for. Either way, I’m intrigued to see how he reimagines this story, especially with a character as complex as Bateman.
Why Schwarzenegger Could Be the Perfect Fit
Let’s talk about why Schwarzenegger might be a great pick. First off, he’s got the look—tall, handsome, and polished, with a smile that could charm you one minute and unnerve you the next. That’s exactly what Bateman needs: a facade of perfection hiding a dark void. Schwarzenegger’s recent roles show he can handle layered characters, and his White Lotus performance proved he can play someone with depth and edge. Plus, he’s got a personal connection to the role—he’s been vocal about his love for American Psycho for years, which makes me think he’d pour his heart into it.
But he’s not the only one in the running. Last year, rumors swirled that Austin Butler was set to play Bateman, though Guadagnino’s recent comments suggest casting isn’t finalized. Monsters star Cooper Koch also threw his name into the mix at the Academy Museum Gala in October 2024, saying, “I think I can do Patrick Bateman.” And Chloë Sevigny, who played Jean in the 2000 film, recently told IndieWire she pitched Guadagnino to reprise her role with reverse-aging effects. It’s a crowded field, but Schwarzenegger’s persistence stands out—he’s not just waiting for a call; he’s actively campaigning, and I respect the hustle!
Fan Reactions and My Thoughts
Fans on social media are split but buzzing. Some are all in for Schwarzenegger, with one X user saying, “He’s got the vibe—Luca, make it happen!” Others are skeptical, pointing out that Bale’s performance is untouchable. I get the hesitation—Bale’s Bateman is iconic, with his mix of dead-eyed charm and unhinged chaos. But I think a new adaptation deserves a fresh face, and Schwarzenegger could bring something different to the table. He’s younger than Bale was at the time, which might give the character a more youthful, reckless energy. And let’s be real—Guadagnino’s vision is going to be its own beast, so comparing the two might not even make sense.
I do have one concern, though: Hollywood’s obsession with reboots. The 2000 film still holds up, and the novel’s themes—consumerism, privilege, emptiness—are timeless, but do we need another American Psycho so soon? Some fans online are calling it a “cash grab,” and I can’t fully disagree. But Guadagnino’s track record gives me hope—he doesn’t just remake; he reimagines. If anyone can make this feel fresh and relevant for 2025, it’s him.
What’s Next for American Psycho?
There’s no official release date yet, but with the script in good shape and Guadagnino teasing casting talks, I’m guessing we might see this hit theaters by late 2026. Guadagnino’s got a busy slate—he just wrapped After the Hunt with Julia Roberts and Andrew Garfield, and Queer with Daniel Craig is out now—but American Psycho seems to be a priority. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for Schwarzenegger to land the role, because I think he’d bring a fresh, hungry energy to Bateman that could surprise us all.
What do you think—should Patrick Schwarzenegger get the part, or do you have another actor in mind? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this new American Psycho!
