Abbie Cornish Stars as Anna Nicole Smith in First Look at Biopic ‘Trust Me, I’m a Doctor’

Abbie Cornish’s remarkable transformation into Anna Nicole Smith is already garnering attention ahead of the release of Trust Me, I’m a Doctor. Her co-star Kal Penn recently shared his thoughts on witnessing Cornish in character for the first time, noting that she truly captured the essence and personality of the iconic model.

In an interview with Variety, Penn commended Cornish’s performance, emphasizing that she brought much more than just a physical likeness to the role. “She really embodied Anna Nicole in a very striking way,” he remarked. “She was a completely different person. I briefly met Anna Nicole a handful of times way back when I was starting my career, and she was on a reality show. I never really had any conversations of any note with her but it definitely brought me back to that time. Abbie is excellent. She’s phenomenal in this role.”

The film delves into the complex relationship between Anna Nicole Smith and her physician, Dr. Sandeep Kapoor, portrayed by Penn. Based on Kapoor’s memoir, the movie chronicles the events surrounding his legal battles following Smith’s tragic death in 2007.

Kapoor faced multiple charges related to the medications he prescribed to Smith but was ultimately cleared of any wrongdoing after a nine-week trial. The film examines the dynamics of their relationship, the media frenzy surrounding Smith, and the controversies that arose after her passing.

Written and directed by Thane Economou, Trust Me, I’m a Doctor also features Linda Hamilton as Kapoor’s attorney, Ellyn Garofalo. Variety recently unveiled an exclusive first look at the film, showcasing a moment where Smith and Kapoor attended the West Hollywood Pride parade in 2005, a time that drew significant public interest due to their close relationship.

Penn noted that Cornish skillfully avoided turning Smith into a mere imitation or caricature. “I didn’t feel like it was an impersonation,” he explained. “I felt like she brought all of the heart and the vulnerability and the complexity of Anna Nicole Smith.”

The actor added that Cornish’s portrayal made it easier for him to connect with his own character, as his reactions felt authentic when she was on set. “Abbie just walks in as Anna, my job is immediately easier,” Penn stated.

The film also examines the individuals surrounding Smith and the challenges that accompanied her fame. Penn reflected that the narrative prompted him to consider the roles of those close to celebrities during their most challenging times. “It definitely gave me pause when you sort of think about how many enablers there are along the way,” he noted.

Penn also revealed that he consulted with Kapoor while preparing for his role. Kapoor shared his insights on the distinction between addiction and dependency, a topic that gained public attention following Smith’s death.

“He walked me through the difference between somebody who may have a dependency on something and somebody who is addicted to something,” Penn explained.

While Penn dedicated time to understanding Kapoor’s viewpoint, he emphasized that his focus was not on determining Kapoor’s culpability in the events that transpired. Instead, he aimed to portray the character as written in the script and to explore the intricate circumstances surrounding him.

Produced by Ryan Hawkins, Al Engemann, Rebecca Case, and Geenah Krisht, Trust Me, I’m a Doctor is set to hit theaters on October 16 through Briarcliff Entertainment. With Cornish’s highly praised transformation and a narrative centered on one of Hollywood’s most controversial figures, the film promises to offer a fresh perspective on Anna Nicole Smith’s final years.

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