What Made Channing Tatum 'Afraid' to Work with Kirsten Dunst?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Channing Tatum reveals his admiration for Kirsten Dunst.
- The film 'Roofman' is based on a true story.
- Tatum felt intimidated working with Dunst.
- 'Roofman' features a strong ensemble cast.
- The film is directed by Derek Cianfrance.
Los Angeles, Sep 8 (NationPress) Hollywood star Channing Tatum has opened up about his experience collaborating with actress Kirsten Dunst. The actor's latest film 'Roofman' premiered at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, where Tatum, aged 45, expressed the surreal feeling of working alongside Dunst.
He revealed that his all-time favorite film of Dunst is the 1994 classic 'Interview with the Vampire', as reported by People magazine.
Tatum stated, "I couldn't envision doing what she accomplished in that film at that age. I have been obsessed with everything she has done."
Despite his admiration for Dunst's extensive career, he confessed that it added an element of challenge to their collaboration. "I felt so intimidated working with her, and when I say intimidated, I mean I was genuinely afraid. I just wanted her to like me," the Magic Mike star laughed. "I was like, 'Please like me.'"
According to People, 'Roofman' is inspired by the real-life story of Jeffrey Manchester (played by Channing Tatum). The film follows the journey of Manchester, a former Army Ranger and struggling father who resorts to robbing McDonald's by cutting holes in their roofs, earning the nickname: Roofman. After escaping from prison, he secretly resides in a Toys 'R' Us for six months, living undetected while plotting his next move. However, when he develops feelings for Leigh (Dunst), a divorced mother captivated by his charm, his double life begins to unravel, leading to a thrilling game of cat and mouse as his past catches up with him.
The film features an ensemble cast, including Ben Mendelsohn, LaKeith Stanfield, Juno Temple, Melonie Diaz, Uzo Aduba, Lily Collias, Jimmy O. Yang, and Peter Dinklage. Directed by Derek Cianfrance, 'Roofman' is set to hit theaters on October 10, 2025.
In June, Channing Tatum discussed the challenges of portraying a real-life character in an interview with Entertainment Weekly.
"It's nearly impossible to narrate someone's real-life story in just 90 minutes," he remarked. "I've only played two other real individuals in my career, and it's never comfortable. I feel a significant amount of pressure. It becomes complex."