Character: The Whistleblower
In Disclosure Day, Josh O'Connor embodies the archetype of the truth-seeker — someone who has discovered evidence of extraterrestrial contact and believes humanity has the right to know.
"People have a right to know the truth. It belongs to 7 billion people."
— The Whistleblower, Disclosure Day trailerThis dialogue directly mirrors real-world UAP disclosure movements, where whistleblowers like David Grusch have testified before Congress about alleged government secrecy around unidentified aerial phenomena.
"Like Old-School Spielberg"
In interviews, O'Connor has given fans the clearest picture of what to expect from Disclosure Day:
"Like old-school Spielberg. I think people will be excited... 'Close Encounters,' 'E.T.'; that world."
This comparison is significant. It positions Disclosure Day not as an invasion thriller like War of the Worlds, but as a return to the wonder, humanity, and emotional depth of Spielberg's classic alien films.
No Audition Required
Like his co-star Emily Blunt, O'Connor was offered the role directly by Spielberg without an audition. This speaks to the director's certainty about his vision and the specific qualities he saw in O'Connor — likely his ability to project moral conviction and everyman relatability.
Career Background
O'Connor's range — from tortured royalty to intense romantic leads — makes him ideal for a role that likely requires both vulnerability and fierce determination.