From Summer Bay to Hollywood: Aussie actress’s hot new role

Raechelle Banno is gearing up for premieres around the world for her highly anticipated film Better Man, in which she plays the ex-girlfriend of pop superstar Robbie Williams.

From Summer Bay to Hollywood, Australian actor Raechelle Banno is gearing up for premieres around the world for her highly anticipated film Better Man.

Nearly three years since filming wrapped up, Banno is back in Australia ahead of the film’s release, which tells the tale of British pop-star Robbie Williams life.

The role of Nicole Appleton, the singer’s former girlfriend, is a dream come true for the 31-year-old, who has been a lifelong fan of William’s music.

“Absolutely it’s a dream come true. It’s a huge deal for me and my whole family. His music has been a part of many family moments but also personally for me,” Banno told The Daily Telegraph.

Australian actress Raechelle Banno, who stars in the new film Better Man. Picture: Richard Dobson

The actor, initially unaware of the magnitude her role would take on, chose to audition as a heartfelt tribute to her younger self, who had once been an enthusiastic superfan.

“I auditioned for 8 year-old Raechelle and it’s been a whirlwind of blessings ever since.”

While portraying a real-life figure can be particularly difficult, Banno had the opportunity to meet Appleton and received her blessing for the role.

“I really wanted to express my respect for her and just acknowledge that I went into the job with good intentions. She’s a very impressive woman.”

Following the footsteps of Hollywood star Margot Robbie and once known for her role as Olivia Fraser Richards on Home and Away, Banno said her time on the show continues to shape her career.

Singer Robbie Williams with his then girlfriend Nicole Appleton, who is played by Banno in Better Man. Picture: Paul Treacy

“I take Olivia to all my jobs, from every lesson I learnt from her it meant that I could step on the biggest project of my career. I just never thought that was possible to come across.

“Being able to tell the story of Robbie Williams having been a fan is absolutely incredible.”

With the holiday season in full swing, Banno is looking forward to a peaceful Christmas with her partner and cat by the fireplace in their London home, where she has lived for the past four years. After her “quiet” time, the actor will soon be diving into the whirlwind of premieres, with her next stop in Los Angeles.

Originally published as From Summer Bay to Hollywood: Aussie actress’s hot new role