Nick Jonas explains how he prepares differently for music and acting roles

Nick Jonas has opened up about how he prepares differently for performing onstage versus acting in films, explaining that while both rely on emotional vulnerability, his pre-performance routine shifts depending on the setting.

The 33-year-old singer and actor spoke to People alongside his Power Ballad co-star Paul Rudd, reflecting on his dual career in music and film.

“I mean, it’s the same thing at the end of the day. You’re putting on a performance, you’re opening up the walls of your personal life and experience to everyone else to kind of engage with,” Jonas said.

However, he noted one clear distinction in his preparation style.

“The only difference is, and this is actually not all that interesting, but the only difference is before a show, I’m relaxed. I might have a little cocktail, get the vibe right. For a scene, I’m not doing that,” he explained.

Jonas added that while the routines differ, the creative mindset remains consistent whether he is on stage or on set.

The Jonas Brothers star appears alongside Rudd in Power Ballad, a film centered on a washed-up wedding singer and a rising pop star whose unexpected collaboration reignites a stalled career while also sparking personal conflict.

Rudd, 57, praised Jonas’s work ethic and presence on set, saying he was impressed by both his musical talent and emotional depth as an actor.

“I learned that you could be an incredibly talented musician and still be the coolest, nicest guy. Nick, that is you,” Rudd said. 

“You have a real way of conveying emotion and showing exactly what your character is thinking without saying anything.”

Jonas returned the compliment, saying he appreciated learning from Rudd’s experience and stories from his long Hollywood career.

“It’s just so cool to see that even at your level and with your experience, that there’s still that ability to kind of be a sponge,” Jonas said.

Power Ballad is now playing in theaters.