American Psycho author believes that the reboot rumours with Austin Butler are a hoax

Over the years, American Psycho has been immortalized in pop culture, but not always for the reasons author Bret Easton Ellis or director Mary Harron intended it to. Ellis wrote his novel as a satirical horror and Harron adapted it with writer Guinevere Turner with the same intention. It followed Patrick Bateman, an investment banker who doubled as a serial killer. As a rule 101 of satire, Bateman's behavior was never meant to be taken at its face value but to be seen as a scathing critique of everything he represents.

Unfortunately, in the pop culture universe, Bateman is not always referred to with this intention. Many viewers misinterpreted Bateman's story and have also started worshipping him. It might have to do with Christian Bale's suave performance in the 2000 film adaptation. Yet, its appropriation became a worrying trend. So, when the news of a new American Psycho adaptation started making the rounds, some people questioned its necessity.

The American Psycho author Bret Easton Ellis recently weighed in on this subject. Let's find out what he said.

American Psycho author speaks about a potential reboot

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Bret Easton Ellis recently spoke about the ongoing speculations related to an American Psycho reboot.

According to the reports, filmmaker Luca Guadagnino, who is behind this year's major award contenders - Challengers and Queer, was interested in adapting this 1991 novel. Many names were being thrown into the bucket for playing Patrick Bateman. From Saltburn-fame Jacob Elordi to Elvis-fame Austin Butler, many talented actors were reportedly being considered for the role once played by Christian Bale.

While speaking on his podcast, Ellis spoke about the announcement that became public in October 2024. Ellis believes that the American Psycho reboot starring Austin Butler is a lie. Here's what he said:

"[I believe] this is just fake news that was put out there to see how an audience is going to react. If it does exist, I am not involved, I have nothing to do with this.”

Besides, for the reboot to go on floors, it needs permission from the people who hold the rights to this material. With the same thought, Ellis said:

"I heard somewhere, from someone, that there are no contracts. Austin Butler hasn’t signed anything to play Patrick Bateman. Luca doesn’t have a deal. Scott Burns, who is supposed to write the screenplay, doesn’t have a deal either."