Stanley Tucci, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in films like “The Devil Wears Prada,” has expressed his bemusement over his unexpected popularity as an online figure. In an interview with PEOPLE, Tucci admitted he is puzzled by this status as the internet’s “favourite boyfriend,” remarking, “I have no idea — I really don’t. I’m glad they are”.
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The 65-year-old star reflected on his rise in popularity, which he connects to the COVID-19 lockdown when his wife, Felicity Blunt, posted a video on Instagram featuring him showcasing his cocktail-making skills. Tucci joked, “And then everything changed”, suggesting his charming content struck a chord during a challenging time for many.
In a light-hearted moment, he attributed his newfound fame to his wife, saying, “It’s all my wife’s doing… I guess she’s trying to get rid of me.” Tucci shared how the overwhelming support from fans has been flattering, noting, “It was very funny for an older man. It was very flattering,” when discussing the enthusiastic responses to the video.
A notable aspect of Tucci’s online presence is his passion for cooking. He frequently shares viral cooking videos, preparing Italian dishes like puttanesca and pasta e ceci. In his interaction with PEOPLE, Tucci explained his creative process behind these culinary tutorials: “Sometimes it’s very spontaneous, and other times I will say to [Blunt], ‘Hey, we need to do a thing, I want to do a video about this kind of dish, or I want to show this thing.’”
Felicity Blunt, who closely collaborates with Tucci on these videos, has developed a knack for knowing when and what to film, enabling them to produce engaging content. He commented, “You know, she’s better at it because she’s younger,” showcasing their dynamic partnership in both personal and professional spheres.
The actor’s charm and talent were highlighted by his long-time colleague, Meryl Streep, during a speech in honour of Tucci at his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in April. Streep described him as possessing an “elegance to his heterosexuality,” and remarked, “I’m in love with you, just like everybody else. It’s impossible not to love Stanley Tucci.” Streep’s sentiments echo the widespread admiration for Tucci’s blend of humour, sophistication, and approachability.
Currently, Tucci can be seen in the Prime Video original film “Masterplan.” In this heist movie, he portrays Roger, a master thief orchestrating an audacious theft at the Louvre targeting the iconic Mona Lisa. What adds complexity to the narrative is that Roger recruits two strangers, who turn out to be his own children, highlighting the film’s intricate family dynamics amid its thrilling plot.
Tucci expressed his enthusiasm for the project, explaining that the script resonated with him due to its homage to the classic heist films of the 1960s and 70s. He stated, “I love the backdrop of it, and I like the complexity of the character. I like the ridiculousness of it — because it is ridiculous. But it is also incredibly charming.”
With “Masterplan” now available for streaming on Prime Video, Tucci continues to captivate audiences through his varied talents and endearing on-screen presence. His ability to traverse both culinary and cinematic realms not only reaffirms his versatility as an actor but also solidifies his status as a cultural icon in today’s digital age. As he navigates this newfound fame, Tucci does so with a combination of humour and humility, winning hearts across the globe.