Tom Hiddleston’s Bizarre On-Set Ritual—Why He Ran in Full Makeup Before Filming!
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Tom Hiddleston is widely admired for his dedication to his craft, bringing depth and authenticity to every role he takes on. However, his commitment to his characters often leads to some unconventional—yet fascinating—moments on set. From spontaneous runs to impromptu dance sequences, Hiddleston’s approach to acting goes beyond the ordinary, adding unique touches to his performances that leave a lasting impression.
One of the most intriguing instances occurred during the filming of the second season of Loki, the Disney+ series in which Hiddleston reprises his role as the God of Mischief. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Hiddleston took a rather unorthodox approach to getting into character. According to the makeup team, he would go for runs after his makeup had been applied, all in an effort to achieve a more “lived-in” look for Loki. This was no ordinary exercise; the goal was to make the character appear older and more weathered, adding a layer of realism to the God of Mischief. As one makeup artist explained, “Tom would often go on runs after his makeup was done in order to make it look more ‘lived in’ and to make Loki look older.” This dedication to capturing the essence of his character highlights Hiddleston’s commitment to every detail of his performance, no matter how unconventional the method.
Another memorable moment of Hiddleston’s on-set spontaneity occurred during the filming of The Life of Chuck, an adaptation of Stephen King’s novella. In a scene that caught everyone off guard, Hiddleston performed a spontaneous seven-minute dance sequence in the middle of a street. The impromptu display was meant to showcase his character’s exuberance, and Hiddleston fully embraced the moment. Reflecting on the scene, he shared, “Chuck Krantz is in town for a convention… and he hears the beat of a drum… Suddenly, he finds himself moving his hips.” The unexpected dance sequence brought a burst of energy to the film and further demonstrated Hiddleston’s ability to bring authenticity and joy to his roles, even when it means stepping outside traditional acting methods.
These instances of unorthodox behavior on set showcase Hiddleston’s creativity and his willingness to take risks in order to bring his characters to life. Whether it’s running to alter his character’s appearance or spontaneously dancing in the street, Hiddleston continues to push the boundaries of performance, making each role uniquely his own. His dedication to authenticity, paired with his playful and inventive spirit, ensures that his performances remain fresh, dynamic, and unforgettable.