Robert Pattinson plays Chris Hansen in Primetime, the upcoming A24 crime drama directed by Lance Oppenheim. The film follows the rise of the investigative journalist who became a household name through To Catch a Predator, the controversial Dateline NBC series that confronted adults attempting to meet minors after online conversations. Pattinson also serves as a producer on the project, marking another collaboration with A24 after building a reputation for starring in ambitious, character-driven films.
Chris Hansen became one of television’s most recognizable journalists during the early 2000s thanks to his calm but confrontational interview style. Primetime explores the creation and cultural impact of To Catch a Predator, while also examining the ethical questions surrounding the groundbreaking series and the real-world consequences that followed. Rather than functioning as a straightforward biopic, the film appears to take a broader look at how investigative journalism and reality television intersected during the era.
In 2025, there was a documentary about To Catch a Predator and its lasting impact titled Predators.
Pattinson is known for disappearing into unconventional roles, making him an intriguing choice to portray the veteran journalist. Early footage shows him adopting Hansen’s distinctive speech patterns and on-screen presence, suggesting another transformative performance from the actor. With Lance Oppenheim directing and A24 backing the project, Primetime is shaping up to be one of Pattinson’s most anticipated films in a staggering list of credits in 2026, as well as another opportunity for him to showcase his range beyond blockbuster franchises.
