British actor Charlie Cox on his blind audition
British actor Charlie Cox didn't know he was trying out for role of sightless vigilante Daredevil
Ryan Reynolds knew and loved his Deadpool comic book character so much that the Canadian actor lobbied for the movie to be made.
Charlie Cox had a different situation.
The British actor reportedly went for a blind audition for a yet-to-be-titled new TV series, armed only with the information that his character was tall, athletic and strong.
He did not know then that he was auditioning for the part of Matt Murdock, a lawyer by day and a costumed vigilante, who goes by the name of Daredevil, by night.
Cox also did not know that his character was blind due to a chemical accident in childhood.
"I was absolutely clueless about the comic book series and character," admitted the charming 33-year-old to The New Paper, who was in town to promote Daredevil yesterday.
"I read the first two scripts and I thought the writing was sophisticated and interesting.
"I really had to go for a proper crash course before production started," he added, laughing.
Cox was handpicked to be the titular Marvel Comics superhero with heightened senses for the series, which is currently in its second season and now streaming on Netflix.
The first season was well-received, much to Cox's relief. Fans are "very protective" of the character, as evidenced by their rejection of US actor Ben Affleck's film version of the superhero in the 2003 flop Daredevil.
TNP was repeatedly reminded not to ask any questions about the movie version or comparisons to Affleck's Daredevil.
Still, Cox is "over the moon" that comic book fans love his take on The Man Without Fear.
"A lot of people who grew up reading the comics had never heard of me or (did not) necessarily think I was right for the character," he said.
AFFIRMATION
"They had other ideas who should play Daredevil, so for them to say they love my portrayal is the best affirmation you can get."
Cox had his first taste of stardom after scoring the lead role in the 2007 fantasy flick Stardust. A bit part in popular TV series Downton Abbey three years later gave his showbiz career an added boost.
A recurring supporting role in the acclaimed TV drama Boardwalk Empire led to Daredevil, which is keeping Cox occupied now.
While he said he does not know if there will be a third season, his Daredevil will be part of a superhero team with the likes of Jessica Jones (Krysten Ritter), Iron Fist (Finn Jones) and Luke Cage (Mike Colter)in The Defenders series, which will also be released on Netflix later this year.
The Defenders are similar to The Avengers, just that they fight crime in New York City.
"Playing Daredevil is all I can handle right now," said Cox, when asked if would consider playing another superhero.
"I'm immensely enjoying playing Matt Murdock and I feel very closely affiliated to him now.
"The idea of playing another superhero feels like cheating!"
Five facts about Charlie Cox
1. He prefers Captain America over Iron Man because he feels his character, Matt Murdock, can relate better to the Cap.
2. He is an Arsenal FC fan.
3. He will choose Superman over Batman because he is friends with fellow British actor Henry Cavill, who plays the Man Of Steel.
4. He is clueless about Taylor Swift or Selena Gomez as he prefers rock music.
5. He had no input for his Daredevil costume except that it give him mobility.
Five facts about Charlie Cox
1. He prefers Captain America over Iron Man because he feels his character, Matt Murdock, can relate better to the Cap.
2. He is an Arsenal FC fan.
3. He will choose Superman over Batman because he is friends with fellow British actor Henry Cavill, who plays the Man Of Steel.
4. He is clueless about Taylor Swift or Selena Gomez as he prefers rock music.
5. He had no input for his Daredevil costume except that it give him mobility.
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