Even some of the best Hollywood stars had a slow start as fresh actors due to bad auditions. Today, actor Bill Nighy is well-known for his blockbuster flicks, and it is hard to imagine Nighy ruining his auditions, but he once revealed that he was rejected multiple times by various directors due to terrible auditions.

Nighy’s work as Ray Simms in 1998’s Still Crazy was praised by fans all over the world, however, the audition process was not easy for the actor, in fact, he was so embarrassed he thought of leaving the set. Thankfully, he got the role and Nighy went on to become a well-known name in the entertainment industry, thanks to his remarkable acting skills and charismatic personality.

Bill Nighy talked about his worst audition

Bill Nighy
In 2016, actor Bill Nighy appeared for an interview with A.V. Club and talked about the worst audition in his career. The actor recalled his audition for 1998’s Still Crazy,
“I did a screen test at about 8 a.m., and I think I was 46 at the time. I had to wear very tight, velvet bell-bottom loon pants,” adding, “You think, ‘Who arranged this? And why would I put myself through this?’ In desperation, I simulated s*x with the mic stand. You know, what are you going to do?”
Despite the embarrassing situation, Nighy managed to bag the role of Ray Simms in Brian Gibson’s Still Crazy, which was nominated for two Golden Globes in 1999.

Bill Nighy praised Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp and Bill Nighy on the sets of

Nighy has worked with Johnny Depp on multiple occasions. His most recent collaboration with Depp was in Andrew Levitas’ 2020 movie, Minamata. In a 2021 interview, Nighy recalled,
“It was awesome. He was kind and welcoming. The first time I saw him with Smith’s make-up I was impressed. I thought this work was going to be successful.”
Johnny Depp and Nighy met on the sets of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest, in which Nighy played the role of Davy Jones.

Bill Nighy went on to become a highly respected figure in the industry

Bill Nighy
At the age of 46, he finally landed the “first principal role in a movie,” which then opened up more opportunities for him. With a career spanning several decades, he has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Nighy’s remarkable performances in films like Love Actually (2003), Pirates of the Caribbean franchise alongside Johnny Depp, and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2012) have earned him a dedicated fan base worldwide.

Bill Nighy’s signature humor and effortless charisma help him stand out. Apart from this, he is also known for his stage work, including his Tony-nominated performance in Skylight, which further showcases his remarkable talent and range. Today, all these performances have made him a respectable figure in the industry.