It was just over a week ago that news broke that Robert Pattinson had given his first public interview in two years. The ‘Twilight’ actor spoke with GQ’s Andi O’Donnell about a number of interesting topics, including his recent reunion with director Bill Condon, how being a ‘Twilight’ recluse has changed over the past year and more.
The Reunion With Condon Will Be A Happy One
When asked about his most recent collaboration with director Bill Condon, Robert Pattinson first joked that they had ‘one of those ‘Twilight’ moments’ where they decided to work together despite their rocky past. The actor then revealed that their time apart had given him a chance to grow, mature and be more comfortable in his own skin.
“You know, after breaking up with my then-girlfriend, I spent a lot of time by myself, just thinking and driving and learning to be proud of it,” he said. “Getting back in the saddle and working with [Condon] was a great opportunity. We’ve always had a good relationship, but it was great to work with someone who I’ve known for a while and who I respect.”
Pattinson On How Being A Recluse Has Changed His Life
The 26-year-old actor also spoke about how being a recluse has changed his life, explaining that he doesn’t ‘go out’ or do ‘parties’ anymore. Instead, he spends his time reading books, learning guitar and ‘just chilling.’
“It’s funny,” he said. “People know that I’m a bit of a hermit, but they don’t really know how much of a difference it’s made. It sounds really cool, but it’s actually made a massive difference. Parties don’t really interest me anymore. I never really got involved with the ‘grammers,’ the beautiful people who share my same interest in vintage cars. I’ve become more interested in learning and expanding my mind.”
Why He Prefers To Be Called By His Band Name
While many people may know him for his acting work, Pattinson explained that he got the nickname ‘Roarke’ after being called ‘Roarke Storm’ while performing with his band. He then went on to joke that he would answer to either name.
“I like Roarke a lot. It’s a cool name. Plus, it’s a bit of an anagram of ‘Robert,’ ” he said. “I could be called ‘Roarke’ or ‘Robby’ and I don’t really mind. One of these days, I’ll just keep going by ‘Robby.’ ”
What He Wants To See More Of In ‘Star Wars’ (Hint: It Has Nothing To Do With Women)
When asked about his upcoming ‘Star Wars’ project, Pattinson explained that he just wants to do his best within the confines of the story and not get in the way of director J.J. Abrams._
“I never really understood the attraction to ‘Star Wars,’ ” he said. “It was just a movie to me. I always kind of wanted to do something different. I think [Abrams] is doing a great job with it. You know, sometimes you just do a movie and you don’t get the chance to explore all the things you want to do. Hopefully, I can do my best and not get in the way of what he wants to do.”_
His Favourite Band Is…The Grateful Dead
While he may not have been able to explore all the things he wants to do in his career, Pattinson has managed to make a name for himself as one of Hollywood’s most in-demand actors with nine films and counting under his belt. A part of this success is undoubtedly down to his acting skills, but he’s also gained a reputation as a bit of a live music enthusiast.
“The Grateful Dead are one of my all-time favourite bands,” he said. “I love their music and I love playing it. They never really had a proper break-up, so for the last few years, they just kept going as a foursome. It’s one of the most constant bands in existence. That’s my kind of rock ‘n’ roll band.”
The ‘American Beauty’ actor went on to name other bands he admires, including The Zombies, Big Audio Dynamite, Grand Funk Railroad and The Allman Brothers. He also mentioned that he used to love watching Jimi Hendrix perform but hasn’t listened to his music in a long time.
“Nowadays, I just play old-school Swedish music,” he said. “I don’t really listen to that many bands. I prefer to discover music by myself. Sometimes, I’ll just play a little bit of what I like in my own car, just for myself. It’s great because I can play what I want when I want to. It has everything to do with my life.”
Why He Prefers To Be Referred To By His Band Name
While many people may know him for his acting work, Robert Pattinson got his nickname ‘Roarke’ after being called ‘Roarke Storm’ while performing with his band. He then went on to joke that he would answer to either name.
“I like Roarke a lot,” he said. “It’s a cool name. Plus, it’s a bit of an anagram of ‘Robert.’ I could be called ‘Roarke’ or ‘Robby’ and I don’t really mind. One of these days, I’ll just keep going by ‘Robby.’ ”
His Top 3 Favourite Vape Tobaccos
When asked which Vape Tobaccos were his favourite, Robert Pattinson didn’t disappoint with his answer. The actor named a few brands, including his personal favourite, Casper, saying, “It just tastes good. It just tastes like weed to me. I don’t know if it’s the type of weed or the way they blend the herbs and spices, but it’s definitely a good one.”
Pattinson then went on to name two more of his favourite brands, Sour Grape and Blueberry, explaining that their flavours just ‘pop’ in his mouth. He also added that there’s nothing more satisfying than taking a bite out of a perfect chocolate chip cookie as you rush to finish the last of a 12-pack.
Why He Wants To Date Models
While he may not have had the opportunity to do much beyond the movie set, Robert Pattinson has managed to carve out a niche for himself in Hollywood by frequently appearing in high profile films. However, his preference for model girlfriends may not be something that appeals to all of his fans.
“I just like the way that they look. I don’t really care if they’re talented or funny or anything,” he said. “They’ve just got to look good. You know, when I was growing up, my girlfriends always dressed really well. It was more about looking cool rather than being funny or talented. So I’ve just always liked models. I guess I’m old-fashioned. I don’t really understand why people wouldn’t want to be with someone who looks like that.”
The actor was then asked if he approached dating models differently to other girlfriends, to which he replied, “Not really. I just want to be with someone who looks as good as they do. It’s as simple as that.”_
How He Manages To Stay Active
While many people may consider Robert Pattinson to be one of Hollywood’s most famous ‘hermits,’ the actor makes it a point to stay fit and active. The 26-year-old credits his band with helping him stay motivated. The drummer in his band, Nick Frishberg, has become his personal trainer. He and the trainer work out together at least four times a week, with Pattinson frequently posting updates about his workouts on Instagram.