Mads Mikkelsen Opens Up About Taking Over Johnny Depp's Role in 'Fantastic Beasts'

Mads Mikkelsen is discussing his new role.

The 55-year-old actor spoke out in a profile for WSJ. Magazine.

Here’s what he had to say…

On taking over Johnny Depp’s role in the Fantastic Beasts franchise: “I don’t feel constrained at all. I think it would be creative suicide if I tried to copy what Johnny did. It’s also very specific. He’s a wonderful actor that nobody can copy, so trying to would be insane. Obviously, I have to find my own path.”

On the role his kids thought was the coolest, starring in Rihanna’s “Bitch Better Have My Money” music video: “Yes, I was the bitch. But I never knew quite why or how I became the bitch…that made me go off on the cool meter among my kids. Bond— fine, OK. Star Wars movie—kind of OK. But working with Rihanna—just top-notch. You know, I might need to get in another video soon.”

On what he does on a night off: “There is a game in Europe called handball, which is very big. Denmark is in the world championships, and we’re reigning champions. So I’m going to watch that tonight. Everyone in the country follows it. It’s like—don’t ask me to explain it. Just watch it. It’s much easier.”

Here’s what he said when asked if he’s spoken to Johnny Depp.

For more from Mads, head to WSJ.com.