Josh Hutcherson had been feeling the strain of splitting his time between Los Angeles and Madrid with his girlfriend, Claudia Traisac. The eight-hour time difference between the two cities was wearing him down, so he decided to lease an apartment in Brooklyn to start a new chapter on the East Coast. However, his plans took an unexpected turn when his agent called him as he was on his way from JFK airport to his new apartment.
The agent informed him that Rachel Sennott, the rising star of indie hits like “Bottoms” and “Shiva Baby,” was launching her first comedy series with HBO titled “I Love L.A.” and she wanted Hutcherson to play her character’s boyfriend. Despite the short notice, Hutcherson was thrilled at the opportunity, as it was a role he had been waiting for after experiencing a lull in his career as he approached 30.
As Hutcherson reflects on his journey in the industry, he acknowledges the ups and downs he has faced over the years. From starring in blockbuster films like “The Hunger Games” to struggling to find meaningful roles, he has experienced it all. Now, at 33, he is entering a new phase of his career with projects like “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” and “I Love L.A.” reigniting his passion for acting.
In “I Love L.A.,” Hutcherson plays Dylan, a schoolteacher who is in a relationship with Maia, played by Sennott. The show explores their dynamic as Maia pursues a career in talent management, bringing chaos into Dylan’s life. Hutcherson’s portrayal of the lovable and relatable character has resonated with audiences, showcasing his comedic and improvisational skills.
While filming the series in familiar locations on L.A.’s Eastside, Hutcherson felt a sense of belonging, especially as the only character not obsessed with show business in the show. He appreciated the opportunity to play a character grounded in reality, as opposed to the fantastical worlds he had often portrayed in his earlier projects.
On the other hand, his role in “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” presented a different set of challenges, with elaborate animatronic costumes and a dedicated fan base to satisfy. Hutcherson admits to initially underestimating the fervor of the franchise’s followers but has embraced the opportunity to cater to their expectations in the sequel.
As he looks back on his time with “The Hunger Games” franchise, Hutcherson acknowledges the impact it has had on his career and life. Despite initially feeling overwhelmed by the fame it brought him, he now cherishes the experience and the relationships formed during that period. The prospect of reuniting with the cast and crew for a new project fills him with excitement and nostalgia.
With the possibility of appearing in the upcoming adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ prequel novel, Hutcherson remains hopeful and eager for new opportunities in his career. As he navigates the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood, Hutcherson’s passion for storytelling and dedication to his craft shine through, promising an exciting future ahead.
