Why Do People Hate Benedict Cumberbatch?
Benedict Cumberbatch is one of the most popular and acclaimed actors of his generation. He has starred in major blockbuster films as well as critically acclaimed indie projects.
However, despite his success, Cumberbatch has also attracted a fair share of haters and critics over the years. In this article, we’ll explore some of the main reasons why people dislike or even hate the talented British actor.
He’s Seen as Arrogant and Pretentious
One of the most common criticisms of Benedict Cumberbatch is that he comes across as arrogant or pretentious in interviews and public appearances. Some people feel he acts like he’s better than others or is condescending when speaking about his craft.
Examples of this perceived arrogance include:
- Using complex vocabulary and mannerisms that seem showed off.
- Talking at length about his intensive acting methods.
- Seeming impatient or annoyed with normal promotional duties.
- Appearing overly serious and intense in interviews.
Many interpret this behavior as Cumberbatch thinking he’s on a higher level than others or buying into his own hype. Whether accurate or not, this rubs a lot of people the wrong way.
Why Does He Come Across as Arrogant?
There are a few potential reasons why Benedict Cumberbatch may come across as arrogant to some:
- His upbringing – He grew up upper-class in London and was classically trained in drama, which shapes his refined mannerisms.
- His intensity – He takes acting very seriously, and that single-minded focus can read as arrogance.
- His Britishness – The posh British accent and dry wit can project an air of superiority to some.
- His fame – As his star has risen, he may have become less grounded.
Does He Actually Think He’s Better Than Everyone?
It’s difficult to say if Benedict Cumberbatch genuinely believes he is superior or entitled. By all accounts, he is an extremely dedicated, hard-working actor who takes his craft seriously.
However, perceiving arrogance is somewhat subjective. While some detect ego or pretentiousness, others see his manner and speech as polished and intellectual.
His Characters Can Be Unlikeable
Another reason why Benedict Cumberbatch rubs people the wrong way is that he has portrayed some famously arrogant or downright unlikeable characters over the years.
For example:
- Sherlock Holmes – His cold, egotistical version of the iconic detective can be off-putting.
- Khan – His performance as Khan in Star Trek Into Darkness was cruel and haughty.
- Dr. Strange – The wizard came across as elitist and standoffish early on.
When an actor convincingly plays unlikable personalities, some of that distaste bleeding over into real life is inevitable. Even though Cumberbatch is nothing like those roles in real life, their lasting negative impressions contribute to his haters.
His Versatility as an Actor
The fact that Cumberbatch has so convincingly played arrogant roles is a testament to his versatility and talent as an actor.
While many stars play the same type of character over and over, Cumberbatch seeks out complex, challenging roles across all genres. He disappears completely into his roles, no matter how unsympathetic they may be.
Unfortunately, his commitment to playing conceited characters fuels people’s dislike of his real-life persona. But great actors inhabit such roles.
He’s Overexposed in the Media
In recent years, Benedict Cumberbatch has been everywhere – films, talk shows, magazine covers, advertisements. For some, this overwhelming media exposure breeds contempt and annoyance towards the actor.
Possible factors contributing to his perceived overexposure:
- His massive popularity after Sherlock made him suddenly ubiquitous.
- Media and fans obsessively share details about his personal life.
- As a Brit, he gets more hype and attention in the UK.
- His distinctive name and face are unavoidable once you notice them.
This “oversaturation effect” is common with prominent celebrities. When the public sees or hears too much about a star, a backlash inevitably forms among those who become sick of the constant coverage.
Is the Backlash His Fault?
The backlash against Benedict Cumberbatch’s media overexposure is not exactly fair or his fault. As an in-demand actor, accepting prominent roles and doing promotion is part of the job.
And as a top star, journalists will inevitably dig into and report on his personal life, relationships, opinions, etc. He does not control tabloids publishing intrusive gossip.
That said, he could be more selective in limiting overexposure concerns, like not over-endorsing products and keeping a lower off-screen profile. Ultimately, some backlash is the price of phenomenal fame.
He Has a Very Enthusiastic Fanbase
Benedict Cumberbatch’s most devoted fans – who call themselves “Cumberbitches” – are incredibly passionate about the actor. And while fandom is great, segments of the Cumber Collective exhibit behaviour that rubs people the wrong way.
Examples include:
- Obsessing over his personal life in disturbing ways.
- Attacking any critics or rivals, like his wife.
- Making everything about him with little sense of boundaries.
- Objectifying or speaking about him in dehumanizing ways.
This disturbing faction taints the whole fandom and fuels negativity towards the object of their obsession – whether rational or not – from those creeped out or offended by them.
The Dark Side of Fandom
Unfortunately, the dark side of fandom is not unique to Benedict Cumberbatch. Many stars acquire deeply dedicated fanbases that take devotion to uncomfortable extremes.
Excessive obsession over celebrities feeds the feeling among haters that the fans, and by association the star, think they are superior beings warranting such submission.
This is certainly not the actor’s fault. But extreme fandom fuels hatred nonetheless.
He’s Perceived as Disingenuous or Fake
Another complaint that often surrounds celebrities is that they are phony or inauthentic. Some believe Benedict Cumberbatch puts on an exaggerated act in public facing situations, adding to unflattering perceptions.
Cues that make people suspect his insincerity:
- His name sounds made up and ridiculous.
- He spins wild tales on talk shows that seem exaggerated.
- His polished manners and speech feel rehearsed and false.
- He gushes hyperbolic praise for fellow stars.
While likely exaggerated, this feeds the narrative that he’s just another Hollywood phony endlessly self-promoting.
Is It Imposter Syndrome?
A more empathetic view is that Benedict Cumberbatch’s perceived inauthenticity stems from long-held imposter syndrome, rather than conscious phoniness.
Despite his fame, he has often expressed feeling like a fraud who does not belong. His posh upbringing may fuel this sense of being an outsider in the acting world.
Constantly doubting yourself and your talent can manifest in anxious tics mistaken for schmoozing and insincerity.
In this view, his over-the-top behavior reflects deep insecurity rather than calculated fakery.
He’s Overly Political or Outspoken
As with many celebrities, Benedict Cumberbatch faces criticism for being too political or outspoken on hot button societal issues. While free speech is his right, these polarized views inevitably alienate segments of the population.
He is often vocal about:
- Brexit
- The refugee crisis
- LGBTQ rights
- Racial injustice
While courageous and well-intentioned, such political outspokenness breeds contempt from those on the opposite sides of these issues. They see him as preachy, elitist, or sticking his nose where it does not belong.
Should Celebrities Be Apolitical?
There are two main schools of thought on celebrities expressing political opinions:
- They have wide platforms and should use them responsibly to impact society.
- They are out-of-touch elites who should stay in their lane as entertainers.
It’s a complex debate. While Cumberbatch aims to contribute positively with his views, the polarized culture ensures backlash to any partisan position.
Tables Related to Topic
Benedict Cumberbatch’s Major Roles
| Production | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Atonement | Paul Marshall | 2007 |
| Sherlock | Sherlock Holmes | 2010-2017 |
| Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy | Peter Guillam | 2011 |
| Star Trek Into Darkness | Khan | 2013 |
| 12 Years a Slave | William Ford | 2013 |
| The Imitation Game | Alan Turing | 2014 |
| Doctor Strange | Dr. Strange | 2016 |
| Patrick Melrose | Patrick Melrose | 2018 |
Benedict Cumberbatch’s Awards and Nominations
| Award | Production | Result | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emmy | Sherlock | Won | 2014 |
| Oscar | The Imitation Game | Nominated | 2015 |
| BAFTA | Patrick Melrose | Won | 2019 |
| Tony | Frankenstein | Nominated | 2016 |
| Golden Globe | The Imitation Game | Nominated | 2015 |
| Laurence Olivier | Frankenstein | Nominated | 2016 |
Conclusion: Haters Gonna Hate
Benedict Cumberbatch’s rise to superstardom has been accompanied by an equally passionate rise in haters. Like any prominent figure, criticism – both fair and unfair – is inevitable.
Ultimately, Cumberbatch is just a human trying to live up to impossible standards. While some critiques have validity, much comes down to subjective taste and inescapable celebrity backlash.
At the end of the day, Benedict’s talent and passion for acting remains. And despite haters, he has more than enough loving fans to sustain a long, fruitful acting career. Reasonable criticism may sting, but likely does little to deter this British icon from following his dreams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Benedict Cumberbatch have an ego?
There is no consensus on whether Benedict Cumberbatch is genuinely arrogant and egotistical. Some believe his posh mannerisms and intense focus reveal a big ego. But others see him as humble and down to earth in spite of his fame. Likely the truth lies somewhere in between the two extremes.
Is Benedict Cumberbatch British or English?
Benedict Cumberbatch is both British and English. He was born in London to English parents, making him English by nationality. Being from England, which is part of the United Kingdom, also makes him British. So like many from England, he has dual English and British identities.
Is Benedict Cumberbatch related to Alan Rickman?
No, Benedict Cumberbatch and Alan Rickman were not related. But they knew each other through their shared connection to acting. Rickman was a mentor and friend to Cumberbatch, but they did not have any familial relation. Their elegant speaking voices may have contributed to assumptions they were related.
What is Benedict Cumberbatch’s Myers-Briggs personality type?
Based on interviews and profiles, many believe Benedict Cumberbatch fits the INTJ Myers-Briggs personality type.
INTJs are introspective, analytical, independent and driven, which fits Cumberbatch’s focused work ethic and perfectionism. However, definitive typing any celebrity is difficult without them taking the test.
Where did Benedict Cumberbatch go to school?
Benedict Cumberbatch attended high school at Brambletye School in West Sussex. He then went on to get a BA in Drama from the University of Manchester. Later he continued his training at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.
Cumberbatch was drawn to drama and performing from a young age and pursued it rigorously in his education.
