Arty Froushan Brings Disturbing Intensity to 'American Psycho' Musical Revival in London

The 'Daredevil' actor puts his own spin on the iconic yuppie serial killer role, finding common ground with the character's desire to fit in.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 5:55pm

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Arty Froushan, known for his roles in shows like 'Daredevil' and 'House of the Dragon', is currently starring as Patrick Bateman in the sold-out London revival of the musical 'American Psycho' at the Almeida Theatre. Froushan discusses how he approached the iconic role, drawing from his own experiences growing up in a well-to-do London school and trying to fit in, while also tapping into the character's deeper vulnerabilities beyond the surface-level psycho. The actor shares insights into the demanding musical theater process, the show's loyal following, and the possibility of taking this production to New York.

Why it matters

The 'American Psycho' musical has developed a cult following since its initial run at the Almeida Theatre in 2013 and its subsequent Broadway transfer. Froushan's portrayal of the dapper yet disturbed Bateman taps into the character's deeper psychological complexities, offering a fresh take on a role that has become iconic through the lens of the 2000 film adaptation starring Christian Bale. The show's exploration of themes like capitalism, identity, and toxic masculinity resonate with current cultural conversations.

The details

In the nearly three-hour, meticulously choreographed 'American Psycho' musical, Froushan's Bateman starts off as a comical caricature of a pretentious Wall Street worker, but slowly descends into a disturbing mental decline as he begins committing cold-blooded murders. The show features a eclectic musical score that blends synth-pop, techno, and '80s classics, creating a frenetic yet clinical atmosphere that mirrors Bateman's unraveling psyche.

  • The 'American Psycho' musical revival opened at the Almeida Theatre in London in early 2026.
  • The show is scheduled to run until March 21, 2026, with all performances currently sold out.

The players

Arty Froushan

An actor known for his roles in shows like 'Daredevil', 'House of the Dragon', and 'Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale', who is currently starring as Patrick Bateman in the London revival of the 'American Psycho' musical.

Rupert Goold

The director of the 'American Psycho' musical revival, who encouraged Froushan to find his own interpretation of the iconic character.

Bret Easton Ellis

The author of the original 'American Psycho' novel, which the musical is based on.

Matt Smith

The actor who previously played Patrick Bateman in the 2013 Almeida Theatre production of the 'American Psycho' musical.

Benjamin Walker

The actor who played Patrick Bateman in the Broadway transfer of the 'American Psycho' musical.

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What they’re saying

“Inevitably, I was inspired by the film. His voice is so iconic, and it was impossible for me to get that out of my head. I think that does bleed into my performance a bit.”

— Arty Froushan, Actor

“Rupert, the director, kept encouraging me to find my Bateman, you know? To find the common ground that I felt with the character, which is always a slightly scary thing — to find common ground with Patrick Bateman.”

— Arty Froushan, Actor

“When I was a kid, I tried everything I could to squash myself into a more standardized, acceptable box. I'm not saying I had an incredibly difficult time in doing that, but it was something that I was grappling with on some deeper level, trying to fit in and blend into the demographics of my surroundings.”

— Arty Froushan, Actor

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.