Micah Richards, the former Manchester City player, has humorously declared his intentions of "going to Hollywood" after receiving acting lessons from none other than Mission Impossible star Tom Cruise. This unexpected turn of events occurred during CBS' Champions League final coverage on the 'Beckham and Friends' show.
Richards had the opportunity to meet Cruise during the UEFA Champions League (UCL) final. Following Paris Saint-Germain's impressive 5-0 victory over Inter, Richards sought advice from Cruise on how to portray a sad character - a stark contrast from his usual upbeat personality. Reflecting on this exchange and the advice he received, Richards jokingly suggested that he could make it as an actor in Hollywood. On discussing this unusual encounter on the Rest is Football podcast, Richards shared some insights into what transpired between him and Cruise.
Micah Richards, Former Manchester City player, said:
"[Cruise told me to] put your head down a little bit, lower your eyes, chin down. And I nailed it! I nailed it, guys, I'm going to Hollywood!"
Gary Lineker, co-host of the podcast and former England international player himself responded with humor saying: "I'm starting to cry Micah. It's so real."
The 'Big Meeks' persona
Richards has cultivated quite a reputation for his infectious personality during his punditry career post-retirement from professional football. Known for his 'Big Meeks' persona off-field, he has garnered a significant following among fans.
However entertaining this idea might be though; it may be quite a stretch for 36-year-old ex-defender Richards to break into Hollywood at this stage. For now though, fans can continue enjoying Richard's lively commentary as part of DAZN for Club World Cup coverage in the United States in the coming weeks. His unique insights and infectious personality will continue to be a part of football punditry, even as he jests about his potential Hollywood career.
While Richards' acting ambitions might be more tongue-in-cheek than serious, it's clear that his charismatic personality continues to win hearts both on and off the football field. Whether or not we'll see him on the silver screen remains to be seen, but for now, fans can look forward to more of his engaging commentary during upcoming football matches.
