LJ Benet Says He Tried to Channel Jason Patric’s ‘Smooth’ and ‘Suave’ Persona in Broadway’s “The Lost Boys ”(Exclusive)

LJ Benet is stepping into the role of Michael Emerson in the Broadway adaptation of “The Lost Boys,” embodying the essence of Jason Patric’s iconic character from the original 1987 film. Despite being only 29, Benet has a clear vision of the nuances required to portray a character weighed down by personal struggles, alongside his involvement with a perilous gang of vampires in Santa Carla.

In a recent interview, Benet revealed that he had not seen “The Lost Boys” prior to auditioning for his role. However, once he watched the film, he quickly grasped its enduring appeal. “Jason Patric is so cool,” he noted, highlighting the original actor’s ability to blend charm with depth. “It’s kind of hard to be that cool,” he admitted, reflecting on Patric’s smooth persona and the complexity he brought to the role.

Benet observed that Patric not only exuded charisma but also conveyed a strong emotional weight. He realised that there were underlying themes within the film, particularly concerning Michael’s backstory and familial issues, that contributed to the character’s internal conflict. “There’s a lot of stuff that the movie doesn’t really talk about in terms of his dad and what happened before they got to Santa Carla,” Benet explained, indicating his understanding of the character’s deeper motivations.

As he prepares to bring his interpretation of Michael to life on stage, Benet is intent on channelling the emotional depth embodied by Patric. “When you’re dealing with abuse like that, you don’t really showcase it,” he said. Instead, he intends to reveal such struggles through a facade that reflects the day-to-day realities many face. Patric’s portrayal, according to Benet, successfully encapsulated this hidden burden.

Benet noted a personal connection to the character’s journey. Growing up in the acting world, he often found himself performing roles without fully grasping his own identity. “You don’t know who you are when you constantly have to perform,” he remarked, drawing parallels between his own experiences and those of Michael. He elaborated on how growing up in an environment marked by emotional abuse can create an instinct to remain guarded, something he feels his character embodies.

With a pointed emphasis on the emotional landscape of the role, Benet recounted a pivotal moment while working on the show, particularly when he engaged with the powerful ballad, “Belong to Someone.” “I knew that this was a character that just wanted to be seen for who he truly was on the inside,” he said. The song resonated with him, encapsulating Michael’s desire for acceptance in the face of his vulnerabilities.

The stage adaptation of “The Lost Boys” retains the spirit of the film while exploring themes of belonging and identity. Benet’s portrayal promises to bring a fresh perspective to the character of Michael, infusing it with a blend of youthful zeal and emotional authenticity.

Now, tickets for performances at the Palace Theatre in New York City are available to the public. As audiences prepare to step into the world of this beloved cult classic, Benet is poised to deliver a performance that not only pays homage to Patric’s original portrayal but also showcases his own unique interpretation of the troubled teen navigating life in a perilous environment.

As the opening night approaches, anticipation builds, and Benet reflects on the opportunity to share a story that has resonated with fans for decades, hoping to connect with a new generation while honouring the legacy of a cult classic.