Once Upon a Time in Hollywood: Why you may recognise Charles Manson actor from Netflix

Starring Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood follows an ageing actor whose career is in decline (DiCaprio) and his stunt double (Pitt) as they try to reignite their Hollywood journeys. Along with this, viewers meet Sharon Tate (played by Margot Robbie,) an actress who, historically, was brutally murdered by the Manson family in a horrific attack which saw four others murdered. But those watching Once Upon a Time in Hollywood may recognise the cult leader Charles Manson from an unexpected place.

What has the actor playing Charles Manson been in other than Once Upon a Time in Hollywood?

Damon Herriman, who is playing Charles Manson in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, is recognisable for his turn playing the same character somewhere else.

In Netflix’s gritty drama Mindhunter, which has had its second season become available today, Herriman has taken on the role of Manson yet again, meaning he has played the serial killer in two separate projects this year.

Of course, with Mindhunter having only just come out, it may be a resemblance only noticed by ultimate bingers who have already watched the new series before heading to the cinema for Tarantino’s epic movie.

On playing the role twice, Herriman admitted he is no closer to really understanding the real man.

He told CBS Los Angeles: “You can’t really put a finger on what made that guy tick.

“I certainly wasn’t able to, completely. I viewed everything I could find to watch of him.

“I read books, listened to podcasts, and listened to his music. I did pretty much a deep dive on that.

“The guy was incredibly complicated and there was a different Charlie depending on what mood he was in.

“He could even change moods within the same interview.

“I think he probably had several mental disorders, probably schizophrenia among other things.

“There’s a lot to get your head around with him.”

Despite the harrowing reality of playing enigmatic Charles Manson, Herriman called the experience in Once Upon A Time in Hollywood “the most fun I’ve had on set.” 

Other than Once Upon A Time in Hollywood and Mindhunter, the star has played other characters in TV series Breaking Bad, Top of the Lake, as well as films House of Wax and upcoming revenge thriller The Nightingale.

Hopefully his next role will be a little cheerier.

Once Upon A Time In Hollywood is in cinemas now