When someone has been a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe as long as Tom Hiddleston, they develop a prestige on set with Marvel Cinematic Universe newcomers.
Hiddleston is one of the longest-running MCU veterans remaining on the roster. In fact, with future projects in the books for Scarlett Johansson, Hiddleston (along with Chris Hemsworth) is only behind Paul Bettany for longest-running MCU actor. This type of tenure comes with a natural sense of leadership, especially when an actor like Hiddleston emerges as the title character after so many years in a sidekick role.
DeObia Oparei, who played the Boastful Loki Variant in Episodes 4 and 5 of Loki, has praised Tom Hiddleston for his incredible focus and work ethic on set. The Direct sat down with Oparei to discuss what it is like being on set with such an established actor and presence in the biggest cinematic universe of all time.
TOM HIDDLESTON LEADS THE WAY ON SET OF LOKI
When The Direct asked DeObia Oparei how Tom Hiddleston approached a day on set where he had to portray not one, but two Gods of Mischief, Oparei said it was just another day at the office for the leading man.
"He approached it like he approached every day."
DeObia Oparei went on to describe the morning routine of the actor, emphasizing Hiddleston's relentless work ethic is a daily occurance.
"He gets up really early, I am sure he is fine with me saying it, he gets up at like 3AM and goes for a run. He makes sure he is completely centered and grounded. HE has this ritual where he douses his face in really cold water. He would do that every morning. I don’t know what time we would always wrap, but he gets up at 3 or 4, and it is incredible."
Leading by example was not the only way Hiddleston created a great work environment for his fellow actors and crew. Oparei went on to explain that Hiddleston was largely responsible for the positive vibe on set as well.
"He would bring this incredible energy on set. He would choose the music that would be pumping out of the speakers for us all to get into the vibe and I love that. But he is super focused and came into it with this absolute, very strong focus. And his work ethic is unbelievable."
HIDDLESTON'S WORLD, WE'RE JUST LIVING IN IT
Loki has been a love letter to one of the most beloved characters to never get his solo spotlight.
Tom Hiddleston has played the role of villain, friend, brother, and enemy. Loki is Hiddleston's opportunity to not only play all four of those roles again, but also be the leading man.
Knowing Hiddleston puts forth so much effort and focus on the role he has worked so hard to play adds a new layer of appreciation from fans. This character has defined Hiddleston's career, and it is always an amazing thing to see someone continue to embrace that.
There have been reports that Marvel Studios is no longer doing long-term contracts that partially held together with the main core of the MCU. Instead, Kevin Feige has said that they are looking for actors who want to be a part of the MCU for many years and don't want to fall into the cash grab trap. Tom Hiddleston seems to be the poster for the ideal MCU actor.
The season finale of Loki airs this Wednesday, July 14.
