With the upcoming release of the highly anticipated Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, all eyes are on the film’s leading man, Owen Teague. The Florida-born, and now New York-based actor—known for his roles in Bloodline, Black Mirror, It and It Chapter Two, and many more—is now adding being a CELINE muse to his resume as Hedi Slimane, the French fashion house’s Artistic Director, tapped Teague as his latest subject for the brand’s ongoing “Portrait Of” series.

With the release of the portraits, and ahead of the film’s premiere this spring, VMAN’s Digital Editor Kevin Ponce caught up with Owen to talk about what it was like being included in the series, his relationship with fashion, and settling into his new digs. Discover the full interview with Owen, below.

VMAN: How does it feel to be part of CELINE’s “Portrait of…” series by Hedi Slimane? What was it like working with Hedi on-set?

Owen Teague: It’s a really nice surprise, and it feels great… I mean, I’m part of a fashion campaign, which is pretty crazy to me. Hedi was really lovely to work with. He was very specific with light, which always makes me happy to see in a photographer (and explains why his images are so good). Light placement is super important, and moving a light mere inches can make for a totally different feel. So it was cool to watch him work, just in terms of his technique as a photographer. It looked easy for him. He clearly had a vision. And he was very kind and easy to talk to, which just generally makes for a better shoot, and better photos. I felt very at ease.

VMAN: Is it your first time working with a big fashion house like CELINE? What are some thoughts you have on the brand and the pieces you got to wear?

OT: It is my first time, and it feels like the right brand for me to work with — I’ve worn their pieces before in other shoots and they feel like me. Their stuff is at once elegant and dramatic — fantastical in a way that’s beautiful and timeless. And I do love a good leather jacket.

VMAN: What are some of your earliest memories with fashion? Can you describe how your style has evolved from rising teen actor to adulthood?

OT: Fashion wasn’t something I ever really thought about as a kid — I only started thinking about it when I found more success as an actor and started seeing how important it is within the industry. But over the years I’ve gained more and more interest in it, I think because of friends of mine who love it and have helped open my eyes to what fashion can be. I almost see fashion now as costume design, which has always fascinated me. I guess now I kind of blend the two, personally. Most films I make, I take something from the character — not necessarily a physical costume piece but a style. Though sometimes I do take a little souvenir, with permission… usually.

VMAN: You’ve had quite a busy 2023, fresh from the Sundance release of “You Hurt My Feelings”. Looking back a bit, what were some of the biggest takeaways/lessons you’ve experienced from the project?

OT: I think “You Hurt My Feelings” helped me let go of my sense of preciousness about the work. Nicole has a very laid-back style of shooting, and it really helped me get out of my own head and feel more comfortable with just playing. Letting it be whatever it is that day, not trying so hard. You can kill your impulses that way. 

VMAN: Now leaning into 2024 with the upcoming premiere of Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, what are you most excited about with that release?

OT: Man, what am I not excited for? I’ve never wanted something to come out so bad. It’s an awesome movie and I can’t wait for people to experience the new world we’ve made. And I’m excited to celebrate with all the people who made it, see them again—we’re a tight group and so it’s a reunion I’m really looking forward to.

VMAN: With the spring/summer season just around the corner, what do you have planned for the months pre/post-movie release? Hopefully some downtime…

OT: Mayyybe? I’m working on a show right now and then into press for Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, so I guess once things settle down with that I’ll have some time. I just moved into a new apartment, so I’m excited to make it feel like home. I moved in a month ago but I’ve been there so little that I’ve barely even unpacked. So yeah…I’ve got that planned—unpacking.