Lance Oppenheim offered Robert Pattinson 200 Zyn cans for 'Primetime' role

Lance Oppenheim allegedly offered Robert Pattinson 200 canisters of Zyn nicotine pouches to secure the actor’s lead role as Chris Hansen in the upcoming film “Primetime,” the Hollywood Reporter said on Tuesday. The film, set to debut later this year, dramatizes the behind‑the‑scenes turmoil of “To Catch a Predator” and follows a fictionalized production of the controversial series. Pattinson ultimately accepted the part, and the studio confirmed his casting, but the alleged bribe has sparked a flurry of questions.

The claim matters because it ties a high‑profile star to a questionable incentive in a project already fraught with ethical debate. Oppenheim, a 31‑year‑old director known for the indie thriller “The Last Broadcast,” has been courting big names to bring credibility to his ambitious retelling of a media saga that many still view as exploitative. Zyn, a brand of nicotine pouches sold without tobacco, has become popular among young adults, but it is not a typical currency in Hollywood negotiations. If true, the alleged offer would be an unusual blend of product placement and personal inducement, raising concerns about how far producers will go to lock in talent for controversial subjects.

Neither Pattinson’s publicist nor Oppenheim’s representatives have responded to requests for comment, and no other major outlet has independently verified the story. The film’s producers say they are focused on completing post‑production work and meeting a planned release date in early 2027. Industry observers note that even the suggestion of a bribe could affect the film’s reception, especially as critics and advocacy groups continue to scrutinize portrayals of real‑life media figures. The controversy may prompt studios to tighten disclosure rules around non‑cash incentives, and it could influence how “Primetime” is marketed when it finally reaches theaters.