Why Paul Rudd Was ‘Nervous’ to Sing in Power Ballad with Nick Jonas, Despite Years of Singing in Comedies (Exclusive)

**Paul Rudd Overcomes Singing Jitters in New Film ‘Power Ballad’**

In a candid revelation, Paul Rudd has shared his initial nerves about singing in his latest film, ‘Power Ballad’, alongside renowned musician Nick Jonas. The actor, famed for his comedic roles, expressed how this project marked a departure from his previous experiences with on-screen music, which he described as ‘silly’ and lighthearted.

Rudd, now 57, spoke about the challenges he faced while collaborating with Jonas, 33, and the film’s writer-director-producer, John Carney, a noted musician. “I had sung in movies before, but it was always silly — you get a lot of leeway,” he admitted during a joint interview with Jonas for PEOPLE magazine. “This was real, actual singing. It was nerve-wracking, especially performing alongside someone like you,” he acknowledged, looking at Jonas, who has a wealth of musical experience.

In ‘Power Ballad’, Rudd takes on the role of Rick, a wedding singer whose career has seen better days. During a wedding performance, he crosses paths with Jonas’s character, Danny, a pop star navigating the challenges of his own career after leaving a boy band. The two characters develop a bond through music during an impromptu jam session, which ignites a competitive rivalry as Danny turns one of Rick’s original songs into a chart-topping hit.

Reflecting on his past roles, Rudd recalled a moment from the 2008 comedy ‘Role Models’, where he improvised a comedic rendition of Kiss’s hit “Beth” for Elizabeth Banks’s character. However, he stressed that the nature of ‘Power Ballad’ is a serious one, stating, “It’s all serious singing from start to finish. So that’s what I did. But yeah, it was a little bit of a nervousness, for sure.”

In an encouraging response, Jonas reassured Rudd during their interview, saying, “Well, you blew everybody away on set.” Jonas, who has ventured into acting alongside his successful music career, brought elements of his own journey into his portrayal of Danny. He remarked, “I definitely brought some of my own experience to the role,” referencing his transition from the Jonas Brothers in the mid-2010s.

Further expressing his enthusiasm for the project, Jonas noted, “It was a dream of a lifetime,” reflecting the personal significance of the role. The challenges faced by his character ran parallel to his real-life experiences, making the performance all the more relatable.

Joining Rudd and Jonas in the cast are Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu, Jack Reynor, and Peter McDonald, who also contributed to the film’s screenplay. Their collective efforts aim to deliver a compelling narrative that blends music, emotion, and the complexities of rekindled ambitions.

‘Power Ballad’ is currently in theatres, offering audiences a unique blend of comedy and drama set against the backdrop of the music industry. As Rudd and Jonas navigate their characters’ intertwined fates, viewers are treated to a heartfelt story that resonates with anyone who has ever faced challenges in pursuit of their passion.

With ‘Power Ballad’, Paul Rudd not only embraces a notable role but also pushes his artistic boundaries, fusing his acting prowess with legitimate musical performances. As the film continues to draw audiences, it remains a testament to the enduring spirit of reinvention in the face of adversity.