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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Scarlett O'Toole

Brendan Fraser says Oscar-nominated role has 'profoundly changed my life'

Brendan Fraser has said that he is "deeply grateful" for the support his comeback film The Whale has received after he was nominated for a Best Actor award at the Oscars.

The 54-year-old admitted that the film has "profoundly changed my life" as he thanked the cast and crew for their support in making the movie.

In The Whale, Brendan plays an obese and reclusive teacher called Charlie who is struggling to reconnect to his estranged daughter (Sadie Sink).

"I'm absolutely overjoyed and deeply grateful to The Academy for this recognition and for recognising Hong Chau's beautiful performance and Adrien Morot's incredible make-up," he said following the nomination.

Brendan Fraser said his role in The Whale has been 'a gift' (Getty Images for Critics Choice)

"I wouldn't have this nomination without Darren Aronofsky, Samuel D Hunter, A24 and the extraordinary cast and crew who gave me the gift of Charlie," Brendan told the PA news agency.

He added that it was "a gift I certainly didn’t see coming, but it's one that has profoundly changed my life."

Also nominated in the Best Actor category is Colin Farrell for The Banshees Of Inisherin, Bill Nighy for Living, Paul Mescal for Aftersun and Austin Butler for Elvis.

31-year-old Austin has dedicated his first-ever Oscar nomination to Lisa Marie Presley following her death earlier this month.

Austin Butler is also hoping to take home the award (Getty Images for Moët and Chando)

Speaking about the recognition, Austin said: "It's sort of a bittersweet moment right now because I think of how much I wish she was here right now to get to celebrate with me.

"It's the same thing I feel with Elvis; I wish that they could see these moments, you know?"

During an interview on the Today show, Austin added: "It's just sort of strange to celebrate at a time of such deep grief. But I sort of think of it as a way to honour her. This is for her."

He added: "It was such a daunting undertaking, making this movie, and it was also a very long process.

"I just remember those sleepless nights and all the fear and all the possibilities for how it could have gone wrong.

"Being recognised just feels very surreal and amazing."

The Banshees Of Inisherin star Colin said that he is "grateful" for the support that his latest film has received.

"[I'm] just so grateful to the Academy for all the love it's shared with the Banshees' cast and crew."

He further told PA: "Also, beyond honoured to be lumped together with my fellow nominees. A heartfelt congratulations to all the lads."

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