Armie Hammer Discusses Controversy, Plans Hollywood Comeback on Podcast

LOS ANGELES, California — Actor Armie Hammer addressed his return to Hollywood and past controversies in a recent episode of The Louis Theroux Podcast, which debuted on Spotify Tuesday. The interview follows a turbulent period for Hammer, marked by accusations of sexual misconduct and unsettling text messages that emerged in 2021.

During the hour-long conversation, Hammer expressed a desire to move forward in his career. “I’ve got offers coming in every week, basically, to the point where I’m having to turn down jobs,” he said, indicating that he had been actively pursuing roles since his hiatus from acting.

Hit with allegations of cannibalism and sexual misconduct, Hammer’s comments have drawn both scrutiny and intrigue. He described his previous challenges openly, reflecting on his substance abuse and personal relationships, which he compared to his prior indulgences of drugs. “People were sort of like my bags of dope with skin on them,” he admitted. He emphasized his accountability with statements like, “I was selfish, inconsiderate, and an asshole,” but defended his character, claiming, “That’s not illegal.”

Hammer elaborated on the nature of his controversial text messages, describing them as lacking context. He specifically referenced a message in which he described cutting the heart out of a living animal. “It was part of a hunting tradition,” Hammer explained, dismissing interpretations of cannibalistic intent. According to him, aggressive comments were often magnified under the influence of substances or provocation.

Throughout the interview, Hammer addressed the motivations of his accusers, suggesting that they were seeking attention. He stated, “I think my accusers want to jump on a wave,… get a lot of support” and challenged the validity of the allegations against him.

The actor confirmed that he spent time in rehab for trauma and substance abuse but expressed contentment with his current lifestyle, saying, “There’s nothing left in that world that I didn’t try…nothing makes me as happy as I feel today, just being calm, and being chill and being a good dad.” He also revealed a personal anecdote regarding his mother funding a vasectomy as a birthday gift.

In an attempt at professional rehabilitation, Hammer disclosed that he recently completed filming “Frontier Crucible” alongside William H. Macy and Thomas Jane. “Then I’m gonna go do another movie in January, and I’ve got another movie in March,” he noted, showcasing his commitment to re-establishing his footing in the film industry.

As the conversation unfolded, Hammer expressed ambivalence towards revisiting his past controversies. “Dredging up all that stuff? I don’t love it,” he remarked, indicating his wish to move past the associated drama and focus instead on personal growth. “My journey is not convincing anybody,” he concluded, emphasizing a desire for introspection over public approval.

Despite being haunted by the criticisms and unflattering media portrayals, Hammer remains adamant that he is ready for a second chance in Hollywood.