Chris Hansen critiques portrayal in A24 film "Primetime" after viewing it
Former "To Catch a Predator" host Chris Hansen said the film "Primetime" was unrealistic and offered a brief reaction, promising a detailed review on his podcast.
Chris Hansen, the former host of "To Catch a Predator," said the A24-distributed drama "Primetime" did not reflect his real-life experiences. In a short video recorded outside a theater, Hansen described the movie as "so bizarre and so in-and-out of reality," adding that he was not objective because the main character is based on him. He said he was unsure of the film's purpose and indicated he would provide a full reaction on his podcast and YouTube channel, "Have A Seat With Chris Hansen," at 7 p.m. ET on Friday.
Hansen had previously declined to view the film during its pre-release stage, citing an unusual legal agreement required by the distributor. He had also criticized Robert Pattinson's impression of him as "overly dramatic," though he noted his family thought it was a "pretty good imitation."
The film, which stars Pattinson as a 2006 version of Hansen during the transition of "To Catch a Predator" from "Dateline NBC" to a primetime slot, is marketed by A24 as "inspired by true events" rather than a biopic. Pattinson responded to Hansen's comments, saying he hoped the character's influence would be seen as a compliment.
"Primetime" opened in theaters this week after premiering at the Venice Film Festival, where it received a standing ovation.