Nicholas Duvernay, the star of the Hulu series 'Not Suitable For Work', is experiencing a whirlwind of firsts as he promotes his first series regular role. In this interview, Duvernay reflects on his journey, from breaking out as a supporting cast member on 'The White Lotus' to landing his first lead role in the new Mindy Kaling comedy. He discusses the unique appeal of 'Not Suitable For Work', the process of booking the role, and the impact of 'The White Lotus' on his career.
Duvernay's perspective on 'Not Suitable For Work' is refreshing. He appreciates the show's ability to merge modern-day struggles with a relatable, vintage Friends vibe. The series centers around overworked 20-somethings in New York, and Duvernay plays Kel Washington, a medical student and aspiring actor. He highlights the show's authenticity and its ability to navigate the complexities of young adulthood in today's society.
The process of booking the role was a whirlwind for Duvernay. He did a Zoom read, followed by a chemistry read with co-star Avantika Vandanapu, and then booked the part. Duvernay had been working on a movie, 'The Love Hypothesis', with Lili Reinhardt, and met Jack Martin, who already had the role in 'Not Suitable For Work'. The actor describes these experiences as out of a storybook, emphasizing the surreal nature of landing his first series regular role.
Duvernay's journey to 'Not Suitable For Work' was significantly influenced by 'The White Lotus'. He attributes his increased visibility and opportunities to the show. Duvernay mentions that he was picked up by UTA before the series premiered, which boosted his profile and opened doors to more creative opportunities. He values the collaborative nature of the industry and the importance of being a warm, kind person.
The actor also discusses 'The Love Hypothesis', a romance novel adaptation. He enjoyed working with the cast, including Lili Reinhardt, Rachel Marsh, and Tom Bateman. Duvernay appreciates the trust he had in the director, Claire Scanlon, and the formulaic aspect of the rom-com genre. He believes that the show has a classic trope that will resonate with viewers, offering good drama and humor.
Duvernay's experiences with 'Not Suitable For Work' and 'The Love Hypothesis' showcase his versatility and the industry's potential to launch careers. His journey from 'The White Lotus' to these projects is a testament to the power of visibility and collaboration in the entertainment business. As he continues to navigate this exciting phase of his career, Duvernay's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors, highlighting the importance of seizing opportunities and embracing the unexpected.
