Duke Nicholson, grandson of Hollywood legend Jack Nicholson, is making his mark in the film industry with his first leading role in the upcoming crime thriller, The Deputy. The film, directed by his close friend Matt Sukkar, showcases Nicholson’s journey as a part-time lawman entangled in a web of small-town corruption.
After nearly a decade of navigating the fringes of Hollywood, Nicholson is stepping into the limelight. The film, based on Victor Gischler‘s novel and featuring a script by Carlo Bernard, known for Narcos and Griselda, follows Toby Sawyer, a hapless deputy who finds himself in a chaotic situation when he is tasked with guarding a corpse that mysteriously disappears. This sets off a frantic night filled with eccentric characters and unexpected twists.
The ensemble cast includes William H. Macy, Tiffany Haddish, Stephen Dorff, and Julia Fox, alongside Billie Lourd, Devon Ross, and Colleen Camp. The film promises to deliver a unique blend of noir atmosphere reminiscent of early Coen brothers films, appealing to audiences who appreciate character-driven narratives.
Highland Film Group has already begun international sales at the Cannes Film Festival, securing deals across Europe, Australia, and Canada. Sales will continue at the upcoming 2026 American Film Market, with a festival debut planned for the same year.
Nicholson’s career path has been shaped by a passion for film that began in his teenage years. “I didn’t really think about anything as a career path until I was probably 15 or 16,” he shared in a recent interview. His initial interest in directing shifted when he began acting in various projects during high school.
The connection with Sukkar, who he met at Sundance, played a crucial role in his journey. “We lived together for about two years in this little house shaped like a boat,” Nicholson recounted. Their collaboration on The Deputy represents a significant milestone for both.
Nicholson expressed enthusiasm for portraying his character, a deputy who inadvertently gets drawn into a larger conspiracy. “It’s a coming-of-age story, though not in the usual way,” he noted, highlighting the character’s growth throughout the film.
Despite his grandfather’s monumental reputation, Nicholson is keen on carving his own path. He appreciates the advice Jack Nicholson imparted about developing original material. “He’s always been more than an actor; he’s a writer and director, too,” he remarked.
A notable moment in Nicholson’s early career was his appearance on the cover of Lana Del Rey‘s 2019 album, Norman Fucking Rockwell!. He explained that while modeling has been part of his experiences, his true passion lies in film. “I spend most of my time watching movies, going to theaters around L.A.,” he said, emphasizing his dedication to the craft.
As he prepares for the release of The Deputy, Nicholson is also focused on writing his own scripts, aspiring to direct projects in the future. “Eventually, the dream would be to act in the films I direct,” he stated, echoing the ambition that drives many in the industry.
With promising projects ahead and a commitment to his artistic vision, Duke Nicholson is poised to make a lasting impact in cinema, ensuring that his name stands on its own merit in the years to come.
