Timothy Olyphantis joining theQuentin TarantinoCinematic Universe. PerDeadline, theJustifiedactor is in negotiations for a lead role in Tarantino’s next film,Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Details regarding his character are unknown at this time, including whether it’s a fictional character or a real person, but Olyphant marks a welcome addition to what is shaping up to be one of Tarantino’s best ensembles ever assembled.
Described as a sprawlingPulp Fiction-esque tale,Once Upon a Time in Hollywoodtakes place in 1969 Los Angeles and starsLeonardo DiCaprioas a former Western TV star struggling to stay relevant andBrad Pittas his trusty stuntman. DiCaprio’s character lives next door to Sharon Tate, played byMargot Robbie, and the film is set against the backdrop of the Manson murders.
It’s unclear if Charles Manson will be an actual character in the film, but—and this is completely a guess on my part—I’m wondering if Olyphant might be playing the infamous cult leader. The guydoeshave a ridiculous amount of charm to him. Though I also could be wrong, and Olyphant could be playing a different character entirely.
With production set to begin this summer, Tarantino is filling out his cast.Burt Reynoldsis in talks to play real-life figure George Spahn, who allowed Manson and his followers to live on his ranch, while Tarantino mainstaysKurt Russell,Tim Roth, andMichael Madsenare in early talks for small roles in the film.
It’d be incredibly exciting ifWalton Goggins, who starred in Tarantino’sThe Hateful Eight, also joined theHollywoodcast, marking aJustifiedreunion with Olyphant. All will be revealed soon enough as Tarantino completes his casting process in the coming weeks.
Once Upon a Time in Hollywoodopens in theaters on August 21, 2025.
