Ray Nicholson, the son of Jack Nicholson, bears a striking resemblance to his iconic father, a similarity that proved advantageous when he auditioned for and secured a role in the new film “Smile 2.”
In the wake of Ray Nicholson’s recent appearance in a horror movie, many fans flocked to social media to express their astonishment at how closely he resembles his father, Jack Nicholson.
A fan comments on the strong resemblance between Ray Nicholson and his father Jack Nicholson, on a post dated October 21, 2024 | Source: Facebook/FoxNews
The director of “Smile 2,” Parker Finn, revealed that he cast Ray as a nod to his father’s iconic horror film, “The Shining,” which Parker considers his favorite movie of all time. He even incorporated tributes to the 1980 classic throughout the sequel.
Ray Nicholson attends the U.S. Premiere of Paramount’s “Smile 2” at Paramount Theatre in Los Angeles, California, on October 14, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Parker shared how excited he was when Ray Nicholson auditioned for the role. He revealed, “The audition was so strong. Of course, Jack Nicholson is one of my favorite actors of all time. I love that Ray has very strong genes, and his smile, instantly, I was like, ‘Oh my God, it’s like looking at a young Jack.'”
Jack Nicholson peering through the door in lobby card for the film “The Shining,” in 1980 | Source: Getty Images
Parker noted that he was impressed by how seamlessly Ray embodied the character’s blend of charm and menace in the film, evoking in the director both anxiety and amusement.
Ray Nicholson attends the U.S. Premiere of Paramount’s “Smile 2” on October 14, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Although he didn’t initially write the role with Ray in mind, Parker recognized that their connection and resemblance was a fortunate twist of fate that ultimately benefited the project.
Fans who have seen the movie and its trailer, which premiered on October 16, 2024, have commented on how much father and son look alike.
One viewer remarked, “Yes looks js like his dad in his younger yrs [sic].” An amazed fan added, “Them genes be strong lol.” The sentiment of familial likeness resonated deeply among fans, with one declaring, “Ray is the spitting image of his legendary father.”
Jack Nicholson in New York City on February 12, 1975 | Source: Getty Images
Another user specifically asserted, “He a handsome version of his dad but that smile n eyes are identical to his dad. [sic]” One fan couldn’t help but compare the two further, saying, “He looks just like Jack back in the day!! He IS the younger jack Nicholson. Taking nothing from this man! [sic]”
Ray Nicholson in Los Angeles, California, on October 14, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
The admiration continued as one viewer noted, “He is so good-looking, just like his dad was when he was young. I love anything that Jack Nicholson is in, he’s amazing.”
Jack Nicholson and Ray Nicholson attend Apollo in the Hamptons at The Creeks in East Hampton, New York, on August 16, 2014 | Source: Getty Images
The conversation also touched on their shared expressions, with a fan explaining, “It’s also his eyes. Jack Nicholson portrayed sinister characters. People remember this [sic] performances. Ray looks so much like his dad that when he makes those facial expressions, it’s reminiscent of Jacks performances. Very eerie!”
Jack Nicholson and Ray Nicholson prior to game 6 of a Western Conference Semifinals NBA playoff basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors in Los Angeles on Friday, May 12, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Others were quick to notice the similarities as well, with one stating, “Goodness! I thought that was Jack Nicholson when he was young!” An observant fan echoed this, “They also share that intense look in the eyes as well!” One viewer even pointed out, “He looks even more sinister than his dad!”
Jack Nicholson in “The Shining,” in 1980 | Source: Getty Images
When he was asked if his dad gave him tips on featuring in a horror film, Ray answered, ” My dad and I don’t talk that much about acting… I think it’s important for me to find my way.” However, he hilariously commented on his resemblance to Jack Nicholson, “My mom says, ‘Ray, you were such a beautiful boy, and then you started to look like your father.'”
Jack Nicholson and Ray Nicholson attend a playoff basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors in Los Angeles, California, on May 8, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Ray landing a role in “Smile 2” is significant as it is a highly anticipated sequel after the original film was so successful that it grossed $200 million globally.
“Smile 2” delves deeper into the chilling tale of a deadly curse that transfers to those who witness a person’s death. The film centers on pop superstar Skye Riley, portrayed by Naomi Scott, as she confronts the challenges of fame, her traumatic history, and the insanity triggered by the curse.
Ray Nicholson, Peter Jacobson, Kyle Gallner, Naomi Scott, Parker Finn, Dylan Gelula, Miles Gutierrez, Raul Castillo, and Iván Carlo at the “Smile 2” premiere in Los Angeles, California, on October 14, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Ray, who stars as Skye’s boyfriend, emphasized while promoting “Smile 2” that watching a horror film in theaters creates a shared experience, as viewers generally prefer not to face fear alone.
Ray Nicholson at the “Smile 2” premiere on October 14, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
“Smile 2,” featuring Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, and Kyle Gallner reprising his role from the first film, is currently showing in theaters across the country.
