Brandon Sklenar has rapidly ascended the ranks of Hollywood talent, transitioning from a dedicated character actor in independent features to a globally recognized leading man. While many audiences first encountered his stoic intensity in the sprawling landscapes of the American West or the high-stakes world of romantic drama, his filmography reveals a diverse portfolio of roles that span historical biopics, science fiction, and gritty crime thrillers.

The most prominent Brandon Sklenar movies and TV shows include his career-defining performance as Spencer Dutton in the Yellowstone prequel series 1923, his role as Atlas Corrigan in the massive 2024 film adaptation of It Ends with Us, and his portrayal of Hollywood icon Burt Reynolds in the miniseries The Offer. As he prepares for upcoming major releases like The Housemaid, looking back at his body of work offers insight into how he became one of the industry's most sought-after actors.

The Turning Point: Spencer Dutton in 1923

If one were to point to a single project that altered the trajectory of Brandon Sklenar's career, it is undoubtedly Taylor Sheridan’s 1923 (2022–present). In this prequel to the Yellowstone saga, Sklenar occupies a unique space as Spencer Dutton, the youngest son of James and Margaret Dutton. Unlike the ranch-bound characters in the main series, Spencer begins the story as a world-weary hunter and veteran of World War I, residing in Africa to escape the ghosts of his past.

The role demanded a rare combination of physical ruggedness and quiet emotional vulnerability. Sklenar’s performance in the early episodes of the first season is largely internal, conveying the trauma of the Great War through silence and intense observation. His character's journey from a big-game hunter in the African wilderness to a man desperately trying to return home to save the Dutton ranch in Montana became the emotional backbone of the series.

Key aspects of his work in 1923 include:

  • Chemistry and Romance: The onscreen partnership between Sklenar’s Spencer and Julia Schlaepfer’s Alexandra provided the series with a high-stakes romance that resonated deeply with fans. Their journey across continents—surviving shipwrecks and shark-infested waters—showcased Sklenar’s ability to anchor a romantic narrative within an action-heavy framework.
  • Physical Preparation: The role required Sklenar to inhabit the persona of a seasoned hunter. His interactions with animals and the natural environment in the African segments of the show were praised for their realism, adding to the show's expensive, cinematic feel.
  • Integration into the Dutton Lore: By playing Spencer, Sklenar joined a cast of legendary proportions, including Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren. Standing his own alongside such veterans solidified his status as a top-tier performer in prestige television.

Global Recognition with It Ends with Us

Following the massive success of 1923, Sklenar pivoted to a contemporary romantic lead in the 2024 film It Ends with Us. Based on the bestselling novel by Colleen Hoover, the movie cast Sklenar as Atlas Corrigan, the protagonist’s first love and a symbol of safety and enduring affection.

Playing Atlas Corrigan presented a different challenge than the rugged Spencer Dutton. Atlas is a character defined by his kindness and his history of homelessness and struggle during his youth. In the film, Sklenar’s performance serves as the critical contrast to the charming but abusive Ryle Kincaid (played by Justin Baldoni).

The impact of this role was significant for several reasons:

  1. Box Office Power: It Ends with Us became a commercial juggernaut, proving that Sklenar could draw audiences to the cinema in a modern romantic setting just as effectively as in a Western period piece.
  2. Emotional Depth: Sklenar was tasked with portraying a man who provides a "safe harbor" for the film’s lead, Lily Bloom (Blake Lively). The subtlety required to play a supportive, non-aggressive male lead in a story centered on domestic trauma highlighted his range.
  3. Fandom Engagement: The role of Atlas was highly anticipated by millions of readers worldwide. Sklenar’s portrayal was widely seen as a faithful and grounded interpretation of the beloved character, further expanding his international fanbase.

Master of the Biopic: Portraying Real-Life Figures

One of the most impressive facets of Brandon Sklenar’s filmography is his ability to step into the shoes of historical figures and real-life icons. These roles often require a meticulous approach to voice, mannerism, and period-specific behavior.

Playing Burt Reynolds in The Offer (2022)

In the Paramount+ limited series The Offer, which dramatizes the tumultuous making of The Godfather, Sklenar took on the daunting task of playing Burt Reynolds. At the time The Godfather was being cast, Reynolds was one of the most recognizable stars in the world. Sklenar’s performance captured the swagger, the trademark mustache, and the charisma of the legendary actor without descending into caricature. It was a transformative turn that demonstrated his ability to handle "Hollywood meta-narratives" and period-specific glamour.

George Gay in Midway (2019)

Directed by Roland Emmerich, the World War II epic Midway featured Sklenar as George "Tex" Gay Jr., an American pilot who was the sole survivor of Torpedo Squadron 8 during the pivotal Battle of Midway. This role leaned into Sklenar’s capacity for playing characters under extreme duress. His portrayal of the real-life war hero, floating in the ocean while witnessing the destruction of the Japanese fleet, provided one of the film’s most human and harrowing perspectives on the battle.

Edward Mapplethorpe in Mapplethorpe (2018)

In the biographical drama Mapplethorpe, starring Matt Smith as the controversial photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, Sklenar played Robert's brother, Edward. This role delved into the complex familial dynamics and the professional rivalry/support between the two brothers. His performance received critical acclaim for its nuance, showcasing a more fragile and psychologically charged side of his acting repertoire.

Television Career Beyond the Dutton Ranch

While 1923 is his most famous TV credit, Sklenar has appeared in several high-profile series that showcase his versatility across genres.

Westworld (2022)

In the fourth season of HBO’s mind-bending sci-fi series Westworld, Sklenar appeared as Henry. Though a smaller role in the grand scheme of the complex narrative, his presence in a series known for its high-caliber acting and philosophical depth was another sign of his rising stock in the industry.

Walker: Independence (2022)

Sklenar made an appearance in Walker: Independence, a prequel to the CW series Walker. Playing Liam Collins, he once again navigated the Western genre, a space where he seems particularly comfortable. His involvement in this series, albeit brief, helped establish the rugged archetype he would later perfect in 1923.

New Girl (2017)

For fans looking for his lighter work, Sklenar had a guest appearance in the popular sitcom New Girl during its sixth season. Playing a character credited as "Loner" in the episode "Cece's Boys," it serves as a reminder of his early days in the industry, taking on guest spots in major network comedies while building his resume.

Filmography: A Detailed Breakdown of Early and Independent Work

Before becoming a household name, Brandon Sklenar spent years honing his craft in independent films and supporting roles in major studio productions. These projects often saw him playing darker, more antagonistic, or highly specialized characters.

Emily the Criminal (2022)

In the critically acclaimed thriller Emily the Criminal, starring Aubrey Plaza, Sklenar played Brent. The film explores the desperate lengths people go to when burdened by student debt and a lack of opportunity. Sklenar’s involvement in such a grounded, gritty project highlighted his interest in socially relevant storytelling and his ability to fit into the tense atmosphere of a modern noir.

The Big Ugly (2020)

In this noir crime thriller that blends British gangster elements with an American Western setting, Sklenar played the primary antagonist, Junior Lawford. Starring alongside veterans like Ron Perlman and Malcolm McDowell, Sklenar’s performance was noted for its "screen-popping" intensity. He portrayed Junior as a dangerous, volatile man hidden behind a classic Hollywood persona, earning him praise for his ability to play a convincing and terrifying villain.

Vice (2018)

In Adam McKay’s biographical drama about Dick Cheney, Vice, Sklenar appeared as Bobby Prentace. Working within an ensemble cast that included Christian Bale and Amy Adams, this project provided him with experience in a high-profile, Oscar-nominated environment, further exposing him to top-tier filmmaking techniques.

Futra Days (2022)

In the sci-fi drama Futra Days, Sklenar took on the lead role of Sean Graves. The film deals with themes of time travel and the nature of control. His performance in this independent feature was so well-received that he won the Best Actor award at the Vienna Independent Film Festival in 2022. This win was a significant indicator of his talent outside of mainstream commercial hits.

Other Notable Film Credits

  • Jones in' (2021): A crime comedy where Sklenar played Deke, a country boy caught between rival gangs.
  • Karen (2021): A crime drama where he played Officer Hill.
  • Temple (2017): A Japanese-American horror film where he played the character James, showing his early willingness to explore different cultural filmmaking styles.
  • Hunky Dory (2016): An early role as Virgil in a comedy-drama.

Upcoming Projects: What’s Next for Brandon Sklenar?

The future looks exceptionally bright for Sklenar, with several major projects currently in various stages of production. These upcoming roles suggest he is moving toward even more prestigious and commercially significant work.

The Housemaid (2025)

One of the most anticipated films on his slate is the adaptation of Freida McFadden’s psychological thriller The Housemaid. Sklenar will star alongside Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried. Directed by Paul Feig, this project is expected to be a major theatrical event, further cementing Sklenar’s position as a leading man in the thriller genre.

Drop (2025)

Sklenar is also set to star in Drop, a thriller from Blumhouse and director Christopher Landon. Blumhouse is known for its high-concept, successful genre films, and Sklenar’s involvement indicates his continued appeal to major production houses looking for bankable talent.

Why Brandon Sklenar is Trending

The surge in interest surrounding Brandon Sklenar’s movies and TV shows is not accidental. Several factors contribute to his current standing in Hollywood:

  • The "Sheridan" Effect: Being a lead in a Taylor Sheridan production is a proven career accelerator. Much like Austin Butler or Kevin Costner’s career resurgence, 1923 gave Sklenar a platform to show he could carry a massive, high-budget narrative.
  • Classic Masculinity with Modern Sensitivity: Sklenar occupies a niche that is currently very popular: he has the physical presence of a classic 1950s movie star but brings a contemporary emotional intelligence to his roles. This allows him to play both a rugged 1920s hunter and a sensitive modern romantic lead.
  • Range Across Genres: From the horror of Temple to the comedy of New Girl and the historical intensity of Midway, he has avoided being typecast. This versatility makes him a reliable choice for directors across different cinematic styles.

Summary of Brandon Sklenar's Key Performances

Year Title Role Format
2022–Present 1923 Spencer Dutton TV Series
2024 It Ends with Us Atlas Corrigan Movie
2022 The Offer Burt Reynolds Miniseries
2022 Emily the Criminal Brent Movie
2019 Midway George 'Tex' Gay Movie
2018 Vice Bobby Prentace Movie
2018 Mapplethorpe Edward Mapplethorpe Movie
2020 The Big Ugly Junior Lawford Movie
2025 The Housemaid Andrew Winchester Movie (Upcoming)

Conclusion

Brandon Sklenar’s journey through the world of film and television is a testament to the power of a breakout role combined with years of steady, high-quality work in the background. While 1923 may have introduced him to the masses, his diverse roles in films like It Ends with Us and Midway prove that he is more than just a "Western star." With major thrillers like The Housemaid on the horizon, Sklenar is poised to remain a central figure in Hollywood for years to come. Whether he is playing a war hero, a romantic interest, or a legendary actor, he brings a grounded authenticity that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

FAQ

What is Brandon Sklenar's most famous role?

His most famous role to date is Spencer Dutton in the Yellowstone prequel series 1923. This role propelled him to mainstream stardom.

Is Brandon Sklenar in It Ends with Us?

Yes, Brandon Sklenar plays the role of Atlas Corrigan, the first love of the main character Lily Bloom, in the 2024 film adaptation.

Has Brandon Sklenar won any awards for his acting?

He won the Best Actor award at the Vienna Independent Film Festival in 2022 for his performance in the science fiction film Futra Days.

Who does Brandon Sklenar play in The Offer?

He portrays the iconic American actor Burt Reynolds in the miniseries The Offer, which chronicles the making of The Godfather.

What are Brandon Sklenar's upcoming movies?

He is set to star in the psychological thriller The Housemaid (2025) alongside Sydney Sweeney and the Blumhouse thriller Drop.