A New Kind of Role for Hartley
Justin Hartley has long been known for his brooding charm, square-jawed heroism, and emotionally grounded performances in shows like This Is Us and Tracker. But in the upcoming action comedy Bride Hard, Hartley is taking a sharp left turn—and he’s doing it with a smile.
In the film, Hartley plays a hilariously self-involved “worm” of a man—a far cry from the sturdy heroes fans are used to. The character is clueless, comical, and borderline buffoonish, and Hartley leans into every awkward moment with surprising finesse. He calls it “one of the most fun things I’ve done in a while,” adding that comedy was “a muscle I was ready to flex.”
Working with Rebel Wilson and Embracing the Chaos
Bride Hard stars Rebel Wilson as a no-nonsense bridesmaid caught in a ridiculous hostage situation at a wedding. Hartley plays the groom—a man who is entirely unequipped to handle anything remotely resembling danger.
In interviews, Hartley admitted that portraying a character so hilariously out of his depth was both liberating and a challenge. “He thinks he’s the main character,” he laughed, “but really, he’s just in the way.”
The film allowed Hartley to show off his comedic timing while also poking fun at the traditional action hero trope. His performance adds a layer of self-aware charm to the movie, making it a potential crowd favorite.
Shaking Off the Serious Guy Image
For years, Hartley has played emotionally resonant characters, including the complex Kevin Pearson in This Is Us and the determined tracker Colter Shaw. But Bride Hard proves he’s capable of much more range—including comedy that borders on slapstick.
It’s a move that signals Hartley’s willingness to take risks and defy expectations. “I didn’t want to be the guy who always broods in the corner,” he said. “Sometimes it’s fun to just be a complete idiot—and still get the girl.”
Fans Are Ready for More
As buzz builds around Bride Hard, fans are excited to see Hartley in a completely different light. Whether he’s sprinting from explosions or fumbling with wedding cake, he brings heart and humor to the screen. And most importantly, he proves that sometimes, breaking the mold is the best move an actor can make.
