Arthur Conti Opens Up About His Role in ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ and Working with Jenna Ortega

Arthur Conti is experiencing a whirlwind of firsts, reflecting on how his life has recently taken a dramatic turn. Meeting at Soho House in London, the young British actor appears in awe as he processes the magnitude of his recent experiences.

His journey reached a milestone at the Venice Film Festival, where he attended the premiere of “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” with director Tim Burton and stars like Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder. The surreal experience of seeing himself on a big screen while surrounded by iconic figures like Sigourney Weaver and Isabelle Huppert was overwhelming for Conti.

The Venice Film Festival not only marked Conti’s debut at such an event but also highlighted his role in the long-anticipated sequel to the gothic comedy, a project that has been in development for longer than Conti has been alive. This film represents his first major role, a leap from his previous minor appearance in “House of the Dragon.”

In “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” Conti plays Jeremy Frazier, a character crucial to the film’s plot. Despite his limited experience, including a brief role as a queen’s page, Conti’s performance has garnered attention, with one article even referring to him as the film’s “secret weapon.” He admits to struggling with the temptation to read reviews, despite being advised against it.

The path to this role was not without its challenges. After submitting a self-tape in March 2023, Conti was unexpectedly offered the role just hours after a Zoom audition with Ortega and Burton, an offer that initially seemed like an April Fool’s joke.

Filming posed its own difficulties, with most scenes shot at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden near London and exterior scenes in Boston. Conti’s arrival in Boston coincided with the actors’ strike, leading to a brief visit before he had to return home. He later resumed filming in November.

On set, Conti found Tim Burton to be both humorous and efficient, creating a relaxed yet effective work environment. He praised his co-stars Keaton and Ryder for their kindness and support.

Much of Conti’s screen time is spent with Jenna Ortega, whom he describes as exceptionally grounded and approachable despite her rising fame. He values her down-to-earth demeanor and the supportive atmosphere she helped foster.

While Conti’s family includes well-known performers like his mother, Nina Conti, and grandfather, Tom Conti, he emphasizes that his acting passion was ignited during a school production of “The Drowsy Chaperone.” Despite initial setbacks in gaining admission to prestigious acting schools, Conti’s career quickly advanced, culminating in his role in “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” and subsequent representation by WME, who are now seeking new projects for him.

Fashion is a new domain for Conti, who admits to limited knowledge but enjoys the experience of wearing stylish clothes. He recently wore a Celine suit at the Venice premiere and is preparing for an Armani event at London Fashion Week.

As Conti’s career continues to flourish, he anticipates that the excitement of his recent achievements will become routine. For now, he remains thrilled and somewhat astonished by his remarkable breakthrough. “This massive thing has happened and it’s hard to believe,” he concludes. “But I’m very excited about it.”