Brandon Sklenar: Unveiling the Actor Behind Atlas Corrigan in ‘It Ends With Us’ and ‘1923’s Spencer Dutton

From the rugged landscapes of the Yellowstone universe to the emotionally charged world of Colleen Hoover’s best-selling novel, Brandon Sklenar has rapidly emerged as one of Hollywood’s most compelling rising stars. His recent casting as the beloved Atlas Corrigan in the highly anticipated film adaptation of It Ends With Us alongside Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni has ignited immense excitement among fans and critics alike. Sklenar’s powerful portrayal of Spencer Dutton in the acclaimed Yellowstone prequel, 1923, has firmly established his presence, showcasing a depth and versatility that promises a bright future in the industry.

• Brandon Sklenar is set to embody Atlas Corrigan in the upcoming It Ends With Us movie, a role eagerly awaited by millions of readers.
• His career-defining performance as Spencer Dutton in the Paramount+ hit series 1923 marked his significant breakout moment.
• A native of New Jersey, Sklenar brings a unique background and dedicated approach to his craft.

The news of Brandon Sklenar joining the cast of It Ends With Us in the pivotal role of Atlas Corrigan has been met with widespread approval. Colleen Hoover’s eponymous novel has captivated millions globally, becoming a literary phenomenon due to its raw honesty, complex characters, and poignant narrative. The character of Atlas, in particular, holds a special place in the hearts of readers, representing hope, resilience, and a profound first love. Sklenar’s rugged charm and demonstrated ability to convey deep emotion make him an ideal fit for this much-anticipated adaptation.

For those who haven’t yet immersed themselves in the epic saga of 1923, the question of “who is Brandon Sklenar?” is a natural one. The 31-year-old actor has quickly captivated audiences with his intense performances and undeniable screen presence. Beyond his recent high-profile roles, Sklenar possesses a fascinating personal story and a dedicated journey through the acting world that has prepared him for this moment. As he steps into these iconic roles, it’s the perfect time to delve into the life and career of one of Hollywood’s newest luminaries.

1. Brandon Sklenar Embodies the Iconic Atlas Corrigan

The announcement of Brandon Sklenar’s casting as Atlas Corrigan was made by Deadline on April 20, sending ripples of excitement through Colleen Hoover’s expansive fanbase. The news was swiftly confirmed by director Justin Baldoni, who not only directs the film but also stars as Ryle Kincaid. Baldoni shared his enthusiasm on Instagram, proclaiming, “Ladies and gentleman… meet your #Atlas @brandonsklenar.” This confirmation solidified the ensemble, which features Blake Lively as the central protagonist, Lily Bloom. The story of It Ends With Us is a deeply emotional journey following Lily Bloom as she encounters the charismatic neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid and believes she has finally found her soulmate. However, as Ryle’s true, darker nature gradually reveals itself, Lily’s idyllic vision of love shatters. It is during this tumultuous period that her first love, Atlas Corrigan, unexpectedly re-enters her life, forcing Lily to confront difficult choices about her past, present, and future. Atlas represents a profound connection, a safe harbor, and a reminder of a different kind of love. The weight of bringing such a beloved character to life is significant, and Sklenar’s casting suggests a nuanced performance capable of capturing Atlas’s gentle strength, unwavering loyalty, and quiet resilience. As of April 2023, the production was gearing up for filming, promising to translate the emotional resonance of the novel to the big screen.

2. His Breakout Role: Spencer Dutton in ‘1923’

Before captivating the “CoHo” nation, Brandon Sklenar achieved widespread recognition through his pivotal role in the critically acclaimed Yellowstonespinoff,1923. In this sprawling Western epic, Sklenar stars as Spencer Dutton, the youngest son of James and Margaret Dutton and a key ancestral figure to the modern-day Dutton family. Spencer’s character is a complex blend of brooding intensity, adventurous spirit, and profound emotional scars. A veteran of World War I, he finds himself haunted by the horrors of war and initially seeks solace and escape as a big game hunter in Africa. His journey across continents, his unexpected romance with the spirited Alexandra (played by Julia Schlaepfer), and his eventual arduous return to Montana form one of the series’ most captivating storylines. 1923, created by visionary storyteller Taylor Sheridan, has been lauded for its stunning cinematography, compelling performances, and its ability to seamlessly weave historical context with family drama. The series quickly became a massive hit for Paramount+, drawing in a dedicated fanbase and receiving critical acclaim for its ambitious scope and powerful storytelling. The success of the first season led to its prompt renewal for a second, cementing Sklenar’s status as a formidable talent within the expansive and popular Yellowstone universe. His portrayal of Spencer resonated deeply with viewers, making him a fan favorite and undeniably launching his career into a new trajectory.

3. A New Jersey Native with a Rich Imagination

Brandon Sklenar’s journey to Hollywood began far from the bright lights, in the suburban backdrop of northern New Jersey. His early years were marked by a distinctive independent spirit. In an insightful interview with Esquire, Sklenar revealed that he was something of a “lone wolf” during his childhood. This solitary nature, however, wasn’t idle; it fueled a vibrant imagination and an innate inclination towards performance. He recounted an amusing anecdote illustrating his early dramatic tendencies: “I’d go to school in a character for two weeks,” he shared. “No joke. I’d have an English accent, or I’d just make up words and languages, and entertain myself that way. I got pretty good at it.” This candid admission highlights a natural talent for storytelling and character embodiment that developed long before he formally pursued acting. Growing up in an environment that allowed for such imaginative exploration undoubtedly laid the groundwork for his future career, fostering a creative spirit and an ability to fully immerse himself in different personas, a skill that now defines his compelling on-screen presence.

4. Overcoming Early Challenges: Social Anxiety, Dyslexia, and a Stutter

The journey to becoming a confident and articulate actor was not without its hurdles for Brandon Sklenar. He openly discussed the significant challenges he faced during his early years, revealing a vulnerability that makes his current success all the more inspiring. “I had a lot of social anxiety when I was a little kid—and I had severe dyslexia and a really bad stutter,” he candidly admitted. These difficulties could have easily deterred many from pursuing a public-facing career, particularly one that relies so heavily on communication and emotional expression. However, Sklenar suggests that these very struggles might have inadvertently drawn him to the world of acting. The act of “pretending to be somebody else,” as he described his childhood escapades, could have served as a coping mechanism or a way to navigate social interactions when his own voice felt constrained. By adopting different characters, he found a freedom and an ability to express himself that was perhaps elusive in his everyday life. He reflected on this paradoxical experience, stating, “I probably used that in some way to try to fit in. And in doing so, you didn’t fit in at all, because you’re just this weird kid who’s pretending to be somebody else.” This early inclination towards transformation, born out of a desire to connect and communicate, ultimately matured into a profound passion and talent for acting, demonstrating his remarkable resilience and dedication to finding his authentic voice through his craft.

5. A Serendipitous Connection to Harrison Ford Before ‘1923’

In a delightful twist of fate that often characterizes Hollywood narratives, Brandon Sklenar harbored a connection to his future 1923 co-star, Harrison Ford, long before they ever shared a set. Sklenar revealed in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that he once auditioned for the role of a young Han Solo in Solo: A Star Wars Story. He humorously recounted the experience, noting the overwhelming competition: “When I showed up to that one, I was a little worse for wear, and there were a couple hundred guys there, if I remember correctly. It was a funny experience.” While the role ultimately went to Alden Ehrenreich, the audition itself became a memorable anecdote. The truly remarkable part of this story is the full-circle moment it represents. Harrison Ford, of course, famously originated the iconic role of Han Solo in the original Star Wars saga. Years after Sklenar’s attempt to step into the younger version of that very character, he found himself sharing the screen with Ford in 1923. In the series, Sklenar plays Spencer Dutton, the nephew of Jacob Dutton, a character powerfully portrayed by Harrison Ford. This serendipitous alignment—auditioning for Ford’s most legendary role only to later play his character’s relation in another major project—underscores the interconnected and often surprising nature of the entertainment industry. It’s a testament to Sklenar’s journey and the enduring legacy of actors who have shaped cinematic history.