Hollywood star Sullivan Stapleton lands Darren Weir role in Michelle Payne movie

HOLLYWOOD star Sullivan Stapleton has come home to Melbourne for a role in the Michelle Payne biopic, Ride Like A Girl.

HOLLYWOOD star Sullivan Stapleton has come home to Melbourne for a role in the Michelle Payne biopic, Ride Like A Girl.

Stapleton, the leading man in NBC’s prime time hit Blindspot, will play horse trainer Darren Weir in the Payne movie, which is being directed by actor Rachel Griffiths.

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“We’re on hiatus from Blindspot and I came home to see family and friends,” said Stapleton, pictured with LA-based Aussie trainer Luke Milton at the EJ Whitten Foundation’s Blokes BBQ event in South Yarra.

Sullivan Stapleton and Luke Milton. Pic: Instagram

“Then came a great opportunity to be part of Rachel’s project. There’s nothing better than being part of a true Aussie story, celebrating a woman and her success in the racing industry.”

Stapleton says he’s still getting used to being on a hit television show and the recognition that comes with it.

“I’ve started wearing Invisalign (braces) and I left them on a table, wrapped in a napkin at a cafe,” he said.

“When I called to ask if anyone had found them, they said: ‘Yes, Sullivan.’

“I’m like, ‘How did you know my name?’ and they say, ‘We know you’re an actor. Did you forget?’”

Stapleton said, laughing: “Sometimes I do forget. It’s just not in my head that what I do for a job gets around.”

Stapleton gave Milton a guided tour of Melbourne.

The former NRL star is bringing his Training Mate phenomenon to Australia later this year, and wanted to support awareness for men’s health while scouting for venues. He trains the likes of Hollywood stars Khloe Kardashian and Rachel McAdams.

“I’ve been converted, Melbourne is pretty cool,’’ he said. “I love the lifestyle and I did start the concept here.”