I think JN must have hated it in his heyday, but even more so when he wasn't the main draw...imagine walking a red carpet and the press and public not knowing you or wanting to photograph you!! These lower key roles probably do not have publicity as part of the contract, so he can keep well out of the limelight!
Thanks for checking the movie premieres out for us Kath, I'm just sorry that you didn't get rewarded with a glimpse of the man himself