Jack Nicholson’s iconic grin has not graced the screen since 2010, but his son Ray Nicholson is making a mark in film, particularly in the newly released horror sequel “Smile 2.” Born in 1992, Ray’s career took off during the pandemic with notable roles alongside Hollywood elites. While he may not yet rival his father’s legendary status, Ray’s diverse roles suggest he aims to carve out his own niche in the industry, exploring various genres with enthusiasm.
Jack Nicholson has long been a dominant force in cinema, known for his unforgettable performances in films like Tim Burton’s ‘Batman’, Stanley Kubrick’s ‘The Shining’, and Miloš Forman’s ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’. At 87, he has an iconic presence, often highlighted by his wide, occasionally manic smile. However, it’s been a significant time since audiences have seen him on screen, with his last appearance being in the 2010 romantic comedy ‘How Do You Know It’s Love’.
While horror enthusiasts can still catch a glimpse of that trademark Nicholson grin, it comes through his son, Ray Nicholson, whose performance in ‘Smile 2’ is currently captivating audiences after its release in German cinemas on October 17. Those who aren’t fans of scary movies may have unknowingly encountered Ray in promotional materials for the film, which feature his eerie visage. This leads many to ponder whether he possesses the talent to follow in his father’s illustrious footsteps over time.
Early Beginnings and a Long Hiatus
Born on February 20, 1992, Ray Nicholson is the son of Jack Nicholson and Rebecca Broussard, who had a relationship from 1989 to 1994. Although Broussard had a brief Hollywood presence, featuring in films like ‘Die Hard’ and ‘Mars Attacks’, she didn’t enjoy the same level of career success as Nicholson.
Ray’s journey in the film industry began at a young age but was not particularly noteworthy; his first appearance came in the 2006 sports comedy ‘The Bench Pressers’. Following this, he took a 12-year hiatus from acting. His return came in 2018 with a role in the lesser-known Netflix action thriller ‘The Outsider’, alongside Jared Leto.
Despite the small stature of his roles, Ray’s co-stars have been impressive. He shared the screen with Anthony Hopkins in the 2019 film ‘Where Are You’, and in 2020, he featured in the critically acclaimed drama ‘Promising Young Woman’ with Carey Mulligan, showcasing his potential for complex characters.
Career Growth During the Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ray Nicholson experienced a significant career boost. He was part of an ensemble in Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘Licorice Pizza’, performing alongside Bradley Cooper, Sean Penn, and Tom Waits. In 2021, he received his first substantial role in the Amazon series ‘Panic’, where he appeared in all ten episodes, although the series was canceled after a single season.
In 2022, Ray’s career reached new heights when he starred as a lead in the thriller ‘Out of the Blue’, where he had a compelling storyline alongside Diane Kruger. His filmography continued to expand with titles like ‘Christmas Presents from Tiffany’ (2022), ‘Gonzo Girl’ (2023), ‘I Love You Forever’ (2024), and the recent ‘Smile 2’.
While Ray Nicholson may still be on a journey to match his father’s diverse talents and accolades, he clearly aims to avoid being typecast. He is set to showcase his range further as a stalker in the upcoming ‘Borderline’, featuring Samara Weaving and Eric Dane, ensuring that audiences will get to see that infamous grin in an entirely different, more sinister context.