Robert Pattinson accepted Primetime role following director bribe with nicotine pouches

Director Lance Oppenheim persuaded actor Robert Pattinson to star in the film Primetime by offering him 200 Zyn canisters and a written note, according to reports from The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, NME, the Washington Times, and The Express Tribune. Pattinson was originally set to serve only as a producer on the project, but Oppenheim used the actor's nicotine pouch addiction to convince him to take on the lead role. [1][2][3][4][5][6]

Variety reported that the note sent along with the nicotine bribe was addressed to Dear Chris Han-Zyn. Pattinson is generating award season interest for his portrayal of television host Chris Hansen in the feature, which is produced by A24. [1][2][4]

The film depicts the intense production, ethical dilemmas, and media sensationalism behind the reality television series To Catch a Predator, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. Primetime is directed by Oppenheim from a screenplay written by Ajon Singh, with supporting cast members including Merritt Wever, Skyler Gisondo, and Phoebe Bridgers. [1][7]

In the psychological thriller, Pattinson portrays NBC journalist Chris Hansen during his work with the vigilante group Perverted-Justice to trap child predators in television sting operations. [7]