Paul Walter Hauser makes unfavorable comments about Hollywood superstar Vin Diesel, reigniting negative rumors about the 'Fast and Furious' actor in Hollywood.
- Jun 28, 2024
AceShowbiz - During a recent press junket for "Inside Out 2," Paul Walter Hauser didn't mince words when he was compared to Vin Diesel by an interviewer. Hauser, who voices the character of Embarrassment in the animated sequel, made it clear that he didn't appreciate the comparison.
When the interviewer likened Hauser's voice acting to Diesel's work as Groot in "Guardians of the Galaxy," Hauser responded, "Please don't say that. I like to think I'm on time and approachable," prompting his co-star Lewis Black to laugh.
He continued, "Sorry, I love people, but when I hear stories about Hollywood actors who get paid really well and mistreat people, I out them constantly. And it's a blast." Lewis chimed in, "Yeah, it's awful."
Hauser's comments have drawn renewed attention to Diesel's controversial reputation in Hollywood. Diesel has faced accusations of mistreatment, including a well-documented feud with "Fast and Furious" co-star Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. In a now-deleted Instagram post, Johnson criticized unnamed male co-stars, which was widely interpreted as a swipe at Diesel.
Johnson wrote, "Some [male co-stars] conduct themselves as stand-up men and true professionals, while others don't... When you watch this movie next April and it seems like I'm not acting in some of these scenes and my blood is legit boiling - you're right."
The tension between the two was reportedly so high that Johnson eventually left the franchise although he did return for a cameo in 2023's "Fast X."
Director Justin Lin also had a falling out with Diesel, which led to Lin's exit from "Fast 10." A source elaborated that Lin decided the movie was "not worth my mental health," though a Universal spokesperson claimed Lin's departure was due to creative differences with the studio rather than with Diesel specifically.
In more serious allegations, Diesel faced accusations of sexual battery in 2023 by a former assistant, though he has denied these claims through a representative.
Despite these controversies, Diesel does have his supporters. Rita Moreno, who played Diesel's character's grandmother in "Fast X," has spoken affectionately about their friendship. Meanwhile, Ludacris, another "Fast and Furious" costar, has praised Diesel for his support, especially during Ludacris' Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony.
As for Paul Walter Hauser, his career continues to ascend. The Emmy-winning actor is set to portray the late Chris Farley in an upcoming biopic directed by Josh Gad. While promoting this and "Inside Out 2," Hauser has not held back on his views, making him a figure to watch both on-screen and off.
