Robert aramayo on Portraying Tourette’s and the Fragility of Acting Success
LONDON – Actor Robert Aramayo, known for roles in Game of Thrones and Behind Her Eyes, is receiving critical acclaim for his portrayal of a young man with Tourette’s syndrome in the new film I Swear. The role prompted a significant learning curve for Aramayo, who admits his initial understanding of the condition was limited to the stereotype of involuntary swearing. The film, released in UK cinemas October 10, has already garnered praise for its sensitive and authentic depiction of life with Tourette’s, and has been personally vetted by comedian and advocate Pete Davidson, who also lives with the condition.
Aramayo’s journey to the role involved extensive research and encounters with individuals living with Tourette’s, challenging his preconceived notions. He discovered the condition manifests in a wide range of tics, far beyond vocal outbursts, often including physical movements and, in some cases, self-harming behaviors. This realization underscored the importance of accurate representation, especially given the often-misunderstood nature of the syndrome. I Swear aims to shed light on the daily realities faced by those with Tourette’s,and offer a nuanced portrayal that moves beyond common misconceptions.
The actor reflected on the unpredictable nature of a career in entertainment,recalling a previous experience where a six-part HBO series starring Casey Affleck was scrapped after a month of shooting due to creative differences. “I didn’t understand the fragility of it,” Aramayo said, realizing work could disappear as quickly as it arrives. He landed Game of Thrones shortly after, but maintains a grounded viewpoint on fame. “You get a flurry of that stuff, and then it goes away very quickly,” he stated. ”Then you’re back to trying to get a job.”
Aramayo hopes the film resonates with the Tourette’s community. he expressed a desire for the film to be well-received by those with the condition,stating,”I just hope some of them watch it,and they’re happy with it.” Director jones reported a positive reaction from Davidson upon viewing the film, describing the screening as filled with “lots of hugs and kisses.”
Following the release of Behind Her Eyes, Aramayo encountered humorous reactions to his character’s supernatural actions. “I had some really funny interactions with people asking why I stole souls,” he recalled with a chuckle. “I’d say, ‘I’m sorry!'” He anticipates a similar, though hopefully more informed, response to I Swear as it gains wider recognition.
