Singer says acting was never part of her plan as she lands lead role in Halina Reijn’s upcoming romantic drama
Gracie Abrams is preparing to make her acting debut after spending the past seven years building a successful music career, revealing that she never expected to pursue acting professionally.
The 26-year-old singer will star in Please, an upcoming romantic drama directed by Halina Reijn. Speaking in a recent interview with Vogue, Abrams admitted that acting had never been part of her long-term plans.
“This wasn’t something I imagined for myself, but every time I read the script it stimulates something in me,” Abrams said while discussing her transition from music to film.
Director saw potential early
Abrams first met Reijn around three years ago when the filmmaker was searching for songwriters to contribute music to her film Babygirl.
According to Reijn, the connection was immediate.
“I totally forgot it was a business meeting. I wanted to be her friend,” the director recalled, adding that Abrams was the first person she thought of when she began writing the screenplay for Please.
Reijn said the singer impressed her during the audition process because of her strong understanding of the lead character and her emotional connection to the story.
Preparing for a new challenge
Although details of the film’s plot remain under wraps, Reijn has described it as a romantic story exploring experiences that many women can relate to.
To prepare for the role, Abrams has immersed herself in the character by reading plays, writing songs inspired by the storyline and creating playlists that reflect the emotions of the film.
She said the preparation process has encouraged her to explore darker and more emotionally complex themes than she has previously encountered.
The film is also expected to feature Tom Burke, David Jonsson and Connor Storrie in supporting roles.
Hollywood roots
While acting may be a new venture for Abrams, she comes from a family deeply connected to the entertainment industry.
Her father is acclaimed filmmaker J. J. Abrams, known for directing major film and television projects, while her mother, Katie McGrath, is a prominent producer.
Abrams is also currently in a relationship with Paul Mescal, one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actors.
Despite her family background, Abrams has established herself primarily through music, earning critical acclaim and a growing international fan base. Her role in Please marks a significant new chapter in her career as she expands into acting for the first time.
With production on the film moving forward and anticipation building around her screen debut, fans will soon see whether Abrams can replicate her musical success on the big screen.
