Tony, the planned biopic about a young Anthony Bourdain, has cast its lead actor, as well as a surprising addition. The film was revealed last year, and Blackberry's Matt Johnson would helm. When the film was announced, Dominic Sessa quickly rose to the top of fan casting lists, bolstered by speculations that The Holdovers star was in talks for the role. Sometimes internet rumors come true, as Sessa has officially signed on to play Anthony Bourdain in the film, alongside a very unexpected A-list celebrity.
Variety recently confirmed that Dominic Sessa will play Anthony Bourdain in Tony. Sessa had been "in talks" with Johnson and A24 about the role since June 2024, but the actor has now officially signed on. Tony has been in the works for more than a year, and fans of the popular chef and TV personality will be thrilled to hear that the film is finally moving forward. Most curiously, Antonio Banderas, the star of Desperado, has joined the ensemble, albeit his role has yet to be announced.
The plot specifics for Tony have already been released. While most people are familiar with the late Anthony Bourdain's hit CNN travel series Parts Unknown, as well as his tell-all books about the culinary industry and travel, Tony will take audiences back before Bourdain rose to prominence. Sessa stars as a young Anthony Bourdain in the film, which takes place in 1976. The synopsis does not specify which point in Bourdain's life it refers to. However, the chef enrolled in culinary school two years after it was scheduled, so the incident is likely to affect Bourdain's passion of cooking.
Legacy of Anthony Bourdai
While there are more celebrity chefs on television than foodies can handle, Anthony Bourdain has a unique place in popular culture. Parts Unknown was considerably more than a typical travel show, as Bourdain provided an uncensored look at the locations he visited while also discussing his personal experiences from previous journeys and how each journey affected him. Anthony Bourdain committed suicide in 2018, while recording an episode of Parts Unknown.
Last year, MovieWeb spoke to three-Michelin-star-winning chef, René Redzepi, and his producing partner Matt Goulding, who were promoting a new food docuseries, Omnivore. During the conversation, Redzepi and Goulding addressed Anthony Bourdain's legacy in the culinary world.