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Austin Butler & Janelle Monáe | Actors on Actors
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- Published on Dec 10, 2022 veröffentlicht
- Warning: Spoilers for 'Glass Onion' at the 10-minute mark
In their Actors on Actors conversation Austin Butler and Janelle Monáe talk about what it takes to perform music as opposed to acting. Butler explains how he prepared three years for the role of Elvis Presley, while Monáe appreciates how her role in 'Glass Onion' was outside her normal range.
Variety Actors on Actors presented by Amazon Studios
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Their voices literally feel like bedtime story omg this is so soothing
@They Should Have Never Given Me Internet Rest.
Yesss!....glad i watched all the way through..
Yes. These two are putting me to bed later. Perfect pairing.
This interview is so calm it’s like an ASMR session
@Lightdion his voice is so relaxing
@Lightdion I am
@Dav12 Noooo 😂
Is that something sexual?
Get outta my gead! I was just thinking this
Austin and Janelle are so comforting and a breath of fresh air to listen to. This conversation was so beautiful.
And she looks great, always done up for someone who all of a sudden claims she is non binary
Agreed easy to watch
Yesss! I I wish it was longer!😏♥️🤭
@Janelle can I offer you my services
Two of the nicest people. Met Austin at an industry screening of ‘Elvis’ and said I had been a fan since ‘switched at birth’ because I’m disabled. He was so kind and when I saw him at another event a few weeks later, he jumped off stage just to say hi to me. Janelle was the only actress at a glass onion screening to come over.
@Khushi Shah. I’m in a guild. I’m a video editor screenwriter.
Her work is so edgy that it is to nice to hear she is down to earth. Thank you for sharing.
Oh that's so cool. Also, how do you get into industry screenings of films ? Help a buddy out.
geshe123
That says a lot about both of them and how they were raised.
This should have been at least two hours long. I can listen to Austin and Janelle all day, they're so well spoken and eloquent.
@Chase L are you commenting this to everyone?
@ProVaxxer Well it's your opinion and I respect that. Austin is pretty eloquent though, you won't deny that
She's not very eloquent, she literally asks questions and then answers them herself with no class. Not hating, just observing. She's still very likable and lovely.
Austin asked her such thoughtful questions. You can feel his respect and genuine interest in her.
@Ash Lee Can I wrote a response to you but Clip-Share deleted it. In essence - you got the wrong end of the stick. I am not a gay woman, I'm a straight woman and black also. I don't fantasise about janelle - I'm here because of Knives Out 2 but
I'm not even a fan. There's a big difference between me (a minority) saying something on youtube and men (who run the planet) accosting and harassing women in real life. My entire comments have been about boys and men being problematic. Were I able to choose (I'm not), I would choose female.
It's official, I need a movie with them together.
Yes we need that!!
Yes!
I second that!
It’s so incredible hearing Janelle’a thoughts on Elvis and the importance of acknowledging black musicians being the originals, they’re always so eloquent and wise I love her 😭 and Austin too he’s amazing and seems so genuine 😭😭😭
@KIRSTY-MARIE So you know more about his story than his family? Stop lying.
@CJM Yeah, keep lying to yourself. Whatever helps you sleep at night.
@KIRSTY-MARIE That didn't matter the fact was that woman was blocked of making success cause of her color. And it's not just hound dog it's other songs he or his circle took let's call it was it was. Elvis took advantage of the fact African Americans musicians was not allowed to be heard on the radio.
So imo still a thief and false king
Can we take a minute to acknowledge the deliciousness of Austin butler's voice? My heart fluttered every time he spoke
@Mallory Newcomb 🤣🤣🤣
Oh honey there’s no lack of acknowledgment for that beautiful voice but yes we can talk about it :)
Yoh... u can say that again
@T A Its not his natural voice
Literally delicious
If Austin didn't take her to Disneyland, then we RIOT
I was like take me to Disneyland caller!!!💯🌪🖤❤🏍💋
@mali me either but I'm only 14 so you never know what could happen
Austin and Janelle interview p2 at Disneyland!
I’ve never been there either 😢
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Both their voices are hypnotizing.
Their voices had love flow, melodically enhancing each other.
Austin Butler was my first ever on screen crush, after I saw him in Zoey 101. It is so insane that we get to witness these former child actors like Austin and Zendaya transforming into acclaimed Hollywood stars. I feel like I’ve grown up with them 😢
I knew I remembered him from somewhere 😭
@Willy Wonka Slow and steady wins the race. He didn't race into the lead roles. Had time to become a better actor.
@Elicia Ellis will you Hire Me I Always be you Happy
@Asset , Accounts , Tax Manager QUIT IT GENIUS!
He’s going to be in the Dune sequel as well….
She always wears the most unusual outfits. This outfit and earrings are amazing. I feel like this is the first AoA session where both actors are actually listening to what the other person is saying and not talking over each other or interrupting each other all the time. His charisma oozes from the screen.
You should check out her Metropolis EP and (pretty acclaimed) Archandroid album. She's been making music for a good 15 ish years and created a whole afrofuturistic universe around it.
She looks exquisite 🤌🏾I can't stop looking at earrings. Everything is perfect.
@Tiyana Ford i agree, this one and the shia + kristen ones are my favorites.
@CorCor Shia and Kirsten Stewart is another good AoA video to watch and I know what you mean I tried watching the J.Lo and Robert Pattinson one but J.Lo kept interrupting Rob and was rude a bit.
Yes! another good one was AoA Kristen Stewart and Shia Labeouf he was very kind to her and made pushed her out her comfort zone without being disrespectful about it, he was respectful and asked her genuine questions about herself, her life, and her recent movie she had done.
This interview was amazing. You could tell they were both comfortable with eachother and they were each invested in what the other had to say. The questions were on point, the chemistry was there (I felt like they were on a date lowkey lol so much chemistry) it was nice hearing about their personal journeys with acting, relationships with their directors and how they prepare for roles. Very nice pairing!
Can you give A chance for Work Anyone For Asset Manager, Accounts And Tax Manager , Transfer Handle, Personal Secretary , I Do Work With Safe And Securety
Amen! And the chemistry is off the charts. Imagine them in a romantic comedy together, or a thriller, or...
I feel the same.
I absolutely loved this interview with Austin and Janelle! They both are so wonderful to listen to and their diverse backgrounds growing up. Austin comes across as a gentle soul and I couldn't take my eyes of this interview. Fantastic interview!!!!
His voice is so soothing. I could listen to him all day long.
All. Day.
I'm from Orange County and was SHOCKED when he said he 's from Anaheim! Wow, Elvis really took over his "accent"!
No, it's yaaaassssssss lol
@Luuk Hulsman yes
Hers too.
I wish this was longer, they speak so beautifully together and it was so calming to listen to. one of the best in my opinion.
Can you give me A Chance I Care you always
Crazy that his voice still sounds somewhat like Elvis. The vocal training must have been really intense
Two years isolated in Australia.
He trained for a year And a half for this role! No wonder his voice changed! Also he’s in his 30’s now so his voice has definitely gotten deeper
@Mercedes Cortez I'm obsessing in a good way. Trust.
Maybe he feels more grounded in that voice. He can keep it all he wants imo.
What a fabulous interview! They were both completely present throughout the entire interview and so respectful of each other. And they both did their homework. Great connection between the two of them. I could watch hours of them talking.❤
Can you give me A Chance I Care you always
Such obvious mutual respect, genuine interest, and chemistry between these 2... we need them acting in a project together! 🙌
I also loved that Janelle mentioned that she had to find her own style in music as an entertainer. She’s definitely Stevie Wonder, Lauryn Hill and Prince in one, she’s such a class act and a talented musician ❤
@Theto M it doesn't make her huge ego suddenly somehow smaller. I'm not sure what you are trying to proof. Prince and these other artists mentioned are on a whole other level give me a break.
@They Should Have Never Given Me Internet I hope you know that she and Prince were friends and collabed and her last 3 albums have been well received by critics...
Hahahaha she isn't, get real for F sake
yeah let's insult Wonder, Hill and Prince in one fell swoop. As if she's really that big of a star, composer or musician. Come on now. This is just that special brand of super rabid fandom. And they wonder why people say this level of illogical 'sucking up' is for children and the child-like.
@DaVinci Brown lol
*What an interesting duo that I never thought I needed. Both underrated from the start but great actors.*
I never would have thought to put these two together, but whoever did was a genius ! Not only are they both insanely talented but also so beautiful! Their chemistry is *chef’s kiss*
Being a black woman born in 92, gotta admit I didn't know jack about Elvis. I finally watched the filmed and it blew me away. Anything I did, hear or thought i knew was wrong. I am glad I took the time to watch the film, it was phenomenal!!! Austin was phenomenal!! What a beautiful tribute to Elvis!!! Always great to see my girl Janelle, in any and everything :) !!!!
Austin always mentions being shy and awkward and yet he always looks so relaxed and at ease. I need to know his secret!
It's called getting in shape. Happens to every guy who puts in the work.
@IndieRockerHippy do it brotherrrr😤 for all the introverts out there. We give you the power and we're backing you
@Kino D New Year's eve!
It's all about like, channeling yourself through that fear and powering through it. It's incredible because I feel like all of us here in the comments and replies can relate to being shy/having anxiety but when there are moments that comes when you power through them, it doesn't necessarily mean that the fear or anxiety or shyness is gone, but you're braving through it to get the job done. And you remind yourself of why you do what you do :)
As a former theater kid and a vocal coach I absolutely love these two and their convos!! I could listen to them talk all day!!!
Can you give me A Chance I Care you always
seeing Austin Butler be successful and on his way to an Oscar nom (and maybe a win!) just hits different because I feel like I've been watching him my whole life, he would make an appearance on all of my favourite childhood shows 😂
I love how much they relate to each other and have the exact same experiences in acting, I loved this conversation
His voice purred this entire interview 😭Whoever let him record this in his bedroom voice, y’all knew what y’all were doing
this was a phenomenal pairing, you can tell they have mutual admiration for one another
he is such a sponge, u can tell he really listens and absorbs information. he will only get better and go so much farther in his career this way. he will be tom cruise brad pitt status 🔥
Yes!
What an amazing conversation! Janelle was the star in Glass Onion and Austin did an amazing job as Elvis.
Can you give me A Chance I Care you always
This was a lovely pairing. They seemed very comfortable with each other. It was a great conversation. Would love to see them work together some day.
@Chris C can you give me chance for work
The chemistry is there. I agree a .movie the two of them would be great
Can you give me A Chance for Work I Care you always
LOVEEEEE Janelle Monae. Also, i'm rooting for Austin. He's campaigning so hard for that Oscar and I wouldn't have it any other way. He gave the performance of a lifetime as Elvis. Hats off to the producers of Actors on Actors for putting them together.
Can you give me A Chance I Care you always
I'd really like to get a part 2 of this conversation where they speak about spirituality, gender, music and insecurity.
Love Janelle Monae so much!!!!! She is the epitome of what it means to be an ICON.
@The Saint ST1 She may not be an icon but she is definitely an artist from vocalist to dancer to songwriter to innovator (as seen in Archandroid) to actor.
Hasn’t done enough to be considered an ICON…….. yet
I do love that Janelle is leaning in to him, she’s invested. And also, the chemistry is undeniable…get them in a film together.
I love Austin and Janelle's chemistry. Their interview exchanges were more like two people sitting on a couch getting to know one another over a cup of cappuccino. 🥰💯❤💋🖤🌪
This was such an introspective interview with both actors. It’s beautiful to see their mutual respect, support and admiration for each other. They’re inquisitive and learning from each other. He’s such a gentleman and she’s such a lady! Fantastic interview of Austin and Janelle! Thank you! ❤🤩❤️✌🏻🎵🎬👏🏻
So bummed when this was over. This was so good and they are both hip, gorgeous, and terrific actors! Yeah, we need a part two of this!
they both have such charisma and charm and it makes this conversation really rich and in depth it doesn't feel overpowered by either of them. and of course, they're both so attractive!
Janelle Monáe has been part of my journey for a lot of years. It was really great to hear some of the depth of her experiences and processes. I didn't know of Austin Butler until the Elvis movie. One of the comments Ms. Monáe made about the artists and souls that influenced Elvis the person was definitely evident in that movie. Also, the movie didn't focus so much on the soap opera life portrayed in media as I was growing up but, rather, the choices Elvis had to make. I didn't think I'd ever dislike a Tom Hanks character. Watching this film, I did. That was heartbreaking. So was Elvis's life.
How can any normal person contain themselves throughout this whole interview😍 this was too good!
I literally wasn’t sure I was ready to watch this yet, but the way they communicate and how calm the vibe that this entire interview gave off, I love it! I love it so much!
Janelle Monae is always so beautiful. She is so unique. Austin Butler gives off Brad Pitt vibes to the max!
Unbelievable chemistry, I just want to see more of them now lol
Janelle needs her own Barbara Walters type show. She is a spectacular interviewer. It is so nice to see Austin get this credit.
@I. I right, she is the star!!! Not the person interviewing the star. It has been a long time coming, she deserves every minute of her shine!!!!
No stop reducing black women to being interviewers
This is such a great discussion. Im so glad they talked about church, and music in church. Both had Christian upbringing, and this is so beautiful.
Yasss I knew Aus was a Christian because he brought Vanessa to church but otherwise he’s just been this lovely and kind soul who has not said much about his religious beliefs so I am PUMPED to go watch the rest of this!!!
Austin has **THE** coolest and most soothing voice of anyone working in Hollywood right now. He exudes the same cool that Elvis himself did.
His voice is also kinda reminiscent of Johnny Depp..unless Johnny Depp was copying Elvis' voice..
They have a lovely chemistry-I hope they will be in a film together sometime. Really enjoyed their conversation about their art, their their inspiration and the respect they have for themselves and each other.
Its the energy between them.... like wow I cant imagine what the connection and energy feels like in that room! its the way he's just genuinely present with her and so engaged and fascinated. I'm saying it right now on Beyoncé internet that I wouldn't be surprised if they started casually dating or we see her at Disney World with him ahh I'm here for it!
Disneyland *
Can you give me A Chance I Care you always
He looks at her with such admiration like he’s an honest fan, it might just be that charming smile of his though
His dancing in public at her Coachella gig sounded like a BIG deal to him.
OK, Austin and Janelle need to do a movie together.
YES
Please! I need that
It was diabolical of Variety to put two of the hottest people on earth in a room together like this. I have never felt uglier in my life.
bwahahaha lmao
@Your Goblin Secretary spot on.
@Rico Soprano LMAO seriously mate, how old are you.
@Your Goblin Secretary exactly
OMG! I second everything everyone is saying. This is so EPIC! I've enjoyed some other Actors on Actors but this one is too phenomenal for words!!! Something sooooo charismatic and charming about them both, and both so genuine with their soothing voices!! They admire and respect each other. THEY ARE BOTH SO PRESENT! It felt like they were best friends or on a date at the same time. LOL!! Need an acting or music project with these two STAT!!!
Wow this was THE MOST perfect conversation between actors I've ever seen. Just honestly wow 👏 so engaged and so soothing. Perfect!
Austin, to be clear, what you were feeling when you were listening to that Gospel Choir was not just the music moving you, but the freedom of true worship and the Holy Ghost. There’s nothing like it!
You were phenomenal in the role of Elvis. I have watched so many reviews and listened to you on so many talk show/interviews. It seems like this was an opportunity of a lifetime, not just a role, and that you will be forever changed. That’s what Jesus does for us.
I also love how humble you continue to remain through all of the media attention. Stay that way. Blessings!
OMG, the last 10minutes I just cried, bc this was so deeply touching my soul. You guys are perfect the way you are. Thanks for being such smart, soft-spoken, reflective, sweet souls!
I can only imagine what it's like to have the opportunity to sit down and just have a honest and chill conversation with both these beautiful humans. This was a treat
These two souls radiate such uplifting, positive energy! So great full to have witnessed this conversation.
This video is an early Christmas gift. 🎁 Austin is such an extraordinary young man. He's mesmerizing, talented and has a good soul.
YES, this is Christamas Gift 💝 for us. So nicely said!Thank You! All Best for You! 🤍💎🤍🌈✨
I’m so glad Big Momma Thornton, Sister Rosetta Thorpe and Mahalia Jackson got shout outs in Elvis.
Such great singers but sadly so forgotten.
wow - they're both so vulnerable, honest with each other. love them!
and they exude a beautiful energy
great episode
I love that they truly seemed so curious about each other’s career and processes, it was great to see them get to know each other! Thanks for this pairing!!
I'm so glad for Austin. He's such an amazing guy and a very talented actor. He deserves the world ❤️
Can you give me A Chance I Care you always
As everyone said, beautiful voices. But also the way they went back & forth SEAMLESSLY! Each askin a new question from the previous answer SO well. 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
Austin was one of my earliest crushes and to watch him flourish has been so special. Janelle is infectious in everything she does, her music and acting has been so special to watch throughout the years. Best actors on actors so far, thank you Variety!
I feel the same way he was one of my first celebrity crushes and he seems like an absolute sweetheart, so now I am just like “look at my baby go!” Like y’all need to protect him
Agreed!🙌🏽
Loved this! Both Austin and Janelle are interesting, articulate, passionate and a joy to listen to.
Maybe it's just me, but these two had a pull to each other that was full of sexual attracton. Especially from Austin. Those eyes of his were saying so much. Their conversation flowed so effortlessly, and it was amazing how present and focused they were on each other. If they started dating, I'd be all for it.
I didn't get that vibe. I walked away thinking they both had respect and adoration for each other. Austin just sexy af ...he'd look at a broom like that 😀😀🤣lmfao
Its at 02:32 :)
@Oya Taurea time stamp. Neow
Did you all catch the lip bite? Sheesh!
One of the best interviews I’ve seen. Both Austin and Janelle are so engaged and real. Thank you both!
Two powerhouse performers from two of my favourite films of the year! What a great match-up! 🎙🔎
The only powerhouse is Austin.
Can you give me A Chance I Care you always
Austin absolutely killed it as Elvis I hope he wins an Oscar for that Legendary performance 💥🔥🔥🔥
@Get somebody else to do it 💀 i saw it 9 times at the cinema bc it was so good the acting the cinematography the costumes
I watched that long ass movie in the middle of the night because of him. It was really good!
This was a very interesting and cool interview. They seem so comfortable with each other and it flowed very naturally. I hope he does take her to Disney one day, she will light up like a light bulb. I saw two very intelligent people learning from each other and I saw a great friendship between them being formed. I enjoyed this and I thank you for sharing love😍❤️🙏🏾
Two insanely charismatic and creative people having a wonderful conversation.
They both have the most relaxing voices ever. I loved Janelle Monae in Glass Onion, I feel like it’s really her breakout role as a big actor, the phone should ring off the hook after this for more roles! Can’t wait to see what her new music sounds like because she is more free and you can feel it. I think every musical artist has to reach a stage where they relax and can say they’ve made it and don’t have to feel the pressure that fans won’t like them anymore.
I didn't want this to end, very interesting conversation. It was just so soothing to watch and hear them speak.
They're both such genuine fans of each other, what great energy, what a great pairing
He is so mesmerisizing ! The way he speaks , what he says , the way he decribes things and situations , his humbleness .... You just wanna listen to him with open ears and eyes without a single minute of disruption...
One of The BEST interviews this year in 2022! Austin and Janelle, please, please do another interview. Giving flowers to each other in person and to those who are no longer here -- PRICELESS! My favorite people!😊❤
Everyone is saying this is such a calm interview but I see this as two people genuinely talking to each other and experiencing each other’s presence.
Archandroid is one of my top 5 favorite albums of allll time😩, it’s sooo powerful. It’s activating and inspiring Janelle, thank you. I grew up loving Elvis and seeing Austin channel that energy transfers his deep reverence and passion. We need people like this celebrated in the arts, well done!
I truly enjoyed watching this. There’s just about seeing artists talk to their peers about their process and experiences that’s so interesting and admirable.
Austin has come so far In his acting career im glad to be seeing people taking him seriously now
Their energy/ chemistry. Even if that was amazing acting, they need a movie together.
HUGE Janelle Monae fan here! I am blown away every time I see her on screen, especially her latest film, The Glass Onion, she was phenomenal. I loved how initially in the film her character was quiet, mysterious and even understated and then she emerged!
Haven't seen Elvis yet, though adding it right now to my list.
Beautiful! Such a talented pair of people! Thank you. If there's a longer version, please share it soon!
I love both of these performers deeply. It was so soothing to watch them actually listening to each other rather than just listening in order to respond. 💜
This was such a joy to watch. I truly appreciate this conversation. It flowed so well. They were so engaged with each other. Then the eye contact. Such Beautiful Beings. And they happen to both be gorgeous.
Holy shit, I’m so glad we got these two together. I love them both so much, man… and they also just might be my new bi panic.
Hahaha relatable 🥵
Love these 2 and their conversation is so insightful & inspiring 🥰❤️💯✨👏 Austin is so sincere & genuine with amazing questions 😍 he’s so handsome.. & Janelle is so beautiful & answers so eloquently & meaningful 🫠🥰 it’s so awesome they were paired together & were able to learn more from each other & really just have this amazing conversation 💯✨
They are so calm, peaceful and gentle. I could listen to them for hours! Such a beautiful souls
Great interview! Loved their chemistry! Elvis and Glass Onion, and in particular there performances were really good.
I got chills from listening to their conversations so beautiful. The connection between them is no one words to describe.
Wow, wow, and WOW-his level of CHILL, his steady gaze, and his VOICE!!!
She is the ELECTRIC LADY. I wish I could go into the future to see her amazing legacy in full
The duo I never thought I needed.
This was Uber cool watching this interview. The deep conversation between them on their roles is amazing. I love it!
Austin seems like a very old soul. ✨ that voice of his 💛
That was amazing.. So respectful so interesting and soothing. More with these two please..❤
Janelle is as close as a human can get to perfection. She is unbelievably beautiful.
Great interview! I love the fact that he's very animated and does not just sit still when he's talking. Love his hand moments when he's expressing himself.