Unbelievable! Nicholas Hoult argues that his previous job has cost him more sleepless nights than Superman. Can you guess which one?

When people think of Nicholas Hoult, they often remember his outstanding performances in films like X-Men, Mad Max: Fury Road, and most recently, his near-casting as Superman in James Gunn’s upcoming Superman: Legacy. Many assumed that preparing for the role of the Man of Steel, even without landing it, would have been the most challenging experience of his career. However, Hoult recently surprised fans with a shocking revelation—there was another job that caused him far more stress and sleepless nights than even the thought of playing Superman.

In a candid interview, the British actor admitted that one particular role pushed him to the limit, demanding more from him mentally and emotionally than anything else he had ever done. While many expected him to name an intense physical role, such as his work in action films, Hoult instead pointed to a project that was completely different. The burning question remains—what was this mysterious role, and why was it so exhausting?

Not Superman—So What Was the Toughest Job?

Despite the physical and emotional demands of preparing for a superhero role, Hoult revealed that his most difficult experience was not related to Superman at all. Instead, he pointed to his work on the Hulu historical drama The Great, where he played Emperor Peter III of Russia. The revelation stunned fans who assumed that a grand-scale superhero production would have been his biggest challenge.

While The Great was widely praised for its dark humor, sharp dialogue, and entertaining performances, Hoult explained that playing Peter III was far more exhausting than any superhero audition. The character’s unpredictability, comedic timing, and morally questionable nature forced him to stay mentally engaged at all times. Unlike a blockbuster film, which allows actors breaks between projects, working on a major television series demanded relentless commitment for extended periods.

Why Did The Great Push Nicholas Hoult to the Limit?

Portraying a character like Peter III required Hoult to step into the shoes of a chaotic, impulsive ruler whose personality was as dangerous as it was comedic. The most significant struggle was not the physical performance but the mental and emotional toll that came with portraying such an extreme character.

The demanding shooting schedule of a TV series left little room for rest, forcing Hoult to maintain high energy levels and emotional intensity over several months. Unlike films, where actors can take breaks between projects, television productions require continuous effort, making it difficult to disconnect from the role.

Playing Peter III also meant balancing between villainy and humor. Unlike superheroes, who usually follow a clear moral path, this character was erratic and childish, making it more challenging to maintain depth while ensuring the audience remained entertained.

The critical acclaim of The Great added additional pressure. Since the show was known for its witty and fast-paced storytelling, Hoult had to constantly deliver sharp comedic timing while portraying a ruthless historical figure. The weight of maintaining excellence in such a highly praised series took a serious toll on his mental and emotional well-being.

How Does This Compare to Superman?

Many believe that preparing for Superman would be an actor’s most grueling experience due to the intense training, action sequences, and the pressure of playing an iconic character. However, Hoult’s revelation proves that dramatic television can be even more mentally and physically demanding than superhero films.

While training for Superman would require peak physical conditioning, the role of Peter III demanded constant emotional and intellectual engagement. The ability to transition between comedy and drama within seconds made the role uniquely exhausting. Unlike Superman, where the character is well-defined, playing Peter required a more unpredictable and spontaneous performance.

What’s Next for Nicholas Hoult?

Although Hoult did not land the role of Superman, he continues to take on major Hollywood projects that showcase his range and dedication. His upcoming films and television roles prove that he remains one of the most versatile and talented actors of his generation.

As audiences anticipate his next big performance, one thing is clear: Nicholas Hoult is far from being defined by a single missed opportunity. Whether playing an emperor, a villain, or a future superhero, his ability to immerse himself in complex characters continues to impress fans and critics alike.

The question remains: would The Great have been more challenging than playing Superman? Fans have mixed opinions, but one thing is certain—Hoult has proven that true acting challenges go far beyond just putting on a cape.