Was Mads Mikkelsen supposed to play Count Orlok in Nosferatu? Explained

Nosferatu has captivated audiences since its first appearance in 1922. Directed by F. W. Murnau, the silent film remains a cornerstone of horror cinema. Robert Eggers’ 2024 remake, a gothic horror masterpiece, reintroduces the chilling tale. Released on December 25, 2024, the film has grossed over $156 million worldwide.

Yes, Mads Mikkelsen was initially considered for the role of Count Orlok in Eggers’ Nosferatu. Early on in the project, Eggers explored several casting choices including Mikkelsen, Willem Dafoe, and Daniel Day-Lewis.

Skarsgård ultimately took first place and gave an amazing performance. This choice came about following multiple delays and rearranging during the movie's development.

The character of Count Orlok has always been integral to the movie. A reclusive and menacing vampire, Orlok’s eerie presence embodies the essence of gothic horror. The remake preserves his ominous nature, bringing fresh depth to his interactions with other characters.

Disclaimer: This article contains major spoilers. Reader discretion is advised.

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Mads Mikkelsen was considered before Bill Skarsgård played Count Orlok in Nosferatu

behind the scenes of Bill Skarsgard transforming into Count Orlok! byu/pUnKz0mBi3 inroberteggers

When Robert Eggers started working on Nosferatu, Mads Mikkelsen was among the top candidates for the role of Count Orlok. In a podcast interview named Happy Sad Confused, Bill Skarsgård mentioned that Mikkelsen and Willem Dafoe were the top choices for the role. At that time, Skarsgård was being looked at for the role of Thomas Hutter, which was later given to Nicholas Hoult.

Skarsgård shared,

“I met [Robert Eggers] almost ten years ago, and he was doing Nosferatu. I read the script and thought it was incredible. Initially, I was supposed to play Thomas Hutter.”

Production delays shelved the movie, though, and Eggers continued on other projects including The Lighthouse and The Northman. Mikkelsen was not involved when Nosferatu returned; Skarsgård was eventually cast as Count Orlok.

The director’s decision to cast Skarsgård proved effective. Critics and audiences have praised his chilling portrayal of Orlok, solidifying his place as a standout villain in horror cinema. Eggers’ original choices, including Mikkelsen, might have brought different interpretations, but the final casting brought fresh energy to the role.

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All about Mads Mikkelsen

Mads Mikkelsen is a celebrated Danish actor known for his versatility and compelling performances. Born on November 22, 1965, in Copenhagen, Denmark, Mikkelsen trained as a gymnast before pursuing a career in dance. He eventually shifted to acting, studying at the Århus Theatre School in 1996.

With parts in movies like The Green Butchers and After the Wedding, Mikkelsen gained recognition in Denmark. Le Chiffre in Casino Royale (2006) brought him his worldwide breakthrough. He has reprised Dr. Hannibal Lecter in Doctor Strange, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story since then.

Apart from performance, Mikkelsen enjoys family and outdoor sports. Married since 2000 to choreographer Hanne Jacobsen, he still feels strongly about his roots. His career spans several genres, proving his ability to equally inhabit villainous and heroic roles.

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The plot of Nosferatu (2024)

The 2024 remake of Nosferatu stays true to its gothic origins while offering new layers to the story. Set in the 1830s, the film begins with Ellen, a lonely young girl, summoning a supernatural entity. This being, Count Orlok, makes her pledge eternal loyalty to him.

Years later, Ellen is married to Thomas Hutter, who works as a real estate agent in Wisburg, Germany. Tasked with selling a property to Orlok, Thomas travels to Transylvania. He discovers the count’s sinister nature when Orlok begins to manipulate and feed on him. Ellen, meanwhile, experiences disturbing visions, hinting at her connection to Orlok.

As Orlok brings plague-infested rats to Wisburg, chaos ensues. Saving the town from the vampire's curse turns on Ellen's last sacrifice. Emphasizing themes of love, sacrifice, and atonement, the last confrontation between Ellen and Orlok gives the movie emotional complexity.

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Cast of Nosferatu (2024)

The cast of the movie features a stellar lineup:

• Bill Skarsgård as Count Orlok
• Lily-Rose Depp as Ellen Hutter
• Nicholas Hoult as Thomas Hutter
• Willem Dafoe as Professor Albin Eberhart Von Franz
• Emma Corrin as Anna Harding
• Aaron Taylor-Johnson as Friedrich Harding
• Simon McBurney as Herr Knock
• Ralph Ineson as Dr. Wilhelm Sievers

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Stay tuned for more news and updates on Nosferatu and similar projects as the year progresses.