Michael Cera, best known for his roles in Juno and Superbad, has always been thoughtful about the direction of his acting career.
The Arrested Development star recently revealed he once passed on the opportunity to join the Harry Potter universe — not because of any controversy, but because he feared becoming “too famous.”
Fame Was a Big Factor in Michael’s Decision
In a candid chat on The Louis Theroux Podcast, Cera explained that he chose to skip what could have been a major role in the Fantastic Beasts series, part of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter franchise.
“I don’t even know if I was officially offered,” he said, “but I just declined to engage with it because it would have been about a six-year commitment.”
Beyond the time commitment, Cera said he wanted to keep a bit of control over his public exposure.
“I had a big fear of doing things that would make me too famous,” he admitted.
Back then, he was wary of blockbuster kid’s movies, wanting to stay under the radar.
Michael’s Feelings About Fame Have Changed Over Time
Now, Michael feels differently about fame. Since starring in Barbie and other projects, his worries about skyrocketing fame have softened.
“I think I’ve outgrown that feeling,” he reflected. “But that’s what it was back then.”
Currently Shining in Wes Anderson’s Latest Film
Fans can now catch Cera in Wes Anderson’s new quirky film The Phoenician Scheme, sharing the screen with Hollywood heavyweights like Willem Dafoe, Benicio Del Toro, Tom Hanks, Scarlett Johansson, and Benedict Cumberbatch.
Growing up, Michael was a huge fan of Anderson’s movies.
“I worshiped him,” Cera said. “All my friends and peers felt the same — he’s the guy.”
He credits Anderson for shaping his own taste in humor and influencing his aspirations as an actor.
“If I fit into his world, it’s because I grew up on his work.”
From Child Star to Confident Actor
Michael’s journey began at just 14 when he landed a role on Arrested Development, an Emmy-winning comedy series.
Co-star Will Arnett often praised his comedic chops, which meant a lot to the young actor. “Will would say, ‘You’re really funny.’
That boosted my confidence because he’s one of the funniest people I’ve ever met,” Cera shared.
A Glimpse Into His Private Life and Family
Despite his public career, Michael keeps his personal life very private.
He is married to his wife, Nadine, though the couple hasn’t shared many details about their relationship’s timeline.
In a rare personal reveal on Justin Long’s Life Is Short podcast back in 2022, Michael described how they met at a bar in Paris. “There was no shyness, just smiles.
It was so comfortable,” he said. “It felt like I saw the whole person.”
The couple now have two children together, welcoming their first in late 2021 and their second in early 2024.