Dominic Sessa, the rising star of The Holdovers, has officially signed on to portray a young Anthony Bourdain in the upcoming biopic Tony. The 22-year-old actor had been rumored for the role for months, but his casting is now confirmed, setting the stage for one of the most talked-about performances of his career.
Joining Sessa in the film is Oscar nominee Antonio Banderas, who has also been cast in a major role that is still being kept under wraps. With these two names attached, Tony is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated casting showcases of the year.
The film will focus on a pivotal moment in Bourdain’s early life, set during a transformative summer in 1976 when he worked and lived in Provincetown. Before he became an internationally recognized chef, writer, and television personality, Bourdain was finding his voice in kitchens and among the bohemian community of Cape Cod.
Matt Johnson, known for BlackBerry, is set to direct from a script by Todd Bartels and Lou Howe. Backed by A24, the project is scheduled to begin production next month. Given Johnson’s success at capturing real-world figures with nuance, expectations are high for a grounded and compelling portrayal of Bourdain’s formative years.
Sessa’s casting feels particularly fitting after his acclaimed debut in The Holdovers, where he displayed a mix of vulnerability and sharpness that will be crucial to capturing Bourdain’s complicated charisma. Meanwhile, Banderas’s involvement hints at a strong supporting ensemble that could add even more depth to the project.
Sessa’s career is quickly gaining momentum. In addition to Tony, he has three films slated for release this year, including Now You See Me: Now You Don’t, Oh. What. Fun., and Tow opposite Rose Byrne.
As for Banderas, he continues to show his versatility, coming off roles in Babygirl alongside Nicole Kidman and Paddington in Peru as the film’s main antagonist.
Tony adds to A24’s growing list of upcoming biopics. Later this year, audiences will also see Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt in The Smashing Machine and Timothée Chalamet in Marty Supreme.
For casting watchers, Tony will be one to follow closely. Sessa stepping into the shoes of a young Bourdain marks a bold choice that could define his trajectory in Hollywood.
