We’re still not entirely convinced that Jerry Seinfeld’s upcoming directorial debut, an absurdist Pop-Tarts origin story, is actually a real movie. However, the addition of Hugh Grant to the cast as cereal mascot Tony the Tiger has certainly raised eyebrows. Technically, Grant is playing Thurl Ravenscroft, the veteran actor who voiced Tony for Kellogg’s for 50 years. Nonetheless, Netflix has released a press image of Grant in a deranged-looking Tony costume, adding to the intrigue.
Seinfeld has also shed some light on Grant’s casting process, revealing that despite his star status, Grant submitted a self-taped audition piece to showcase his ability to embody a man who voiced an iconic animated character.
Spike Feresten, Seinfeld’s writing partner on ‘Seinfeld,’ spoke about Grant’s audition, recalling, ‘He had a glass of wine in his hand and he was on the couch. We were just stunned on how homemade his audition was — and how good it was.’
Grant’s commitment to the role, even in its apparent absurdity, impressed Seinfeld and Feresten, leading them to offer him the part.
So, while we may still question the legitimacy of Seinfeld’s Pop-Tart origin story, the casting of Hugh Grant as Tony the Tiger is certainly an unexpected and potentially hilarious twist.
