Ethan Hawke Recalls The Time When Robert Redford Roasted His Style

Ethan Hawke is giving credit score the place it’s due, to none apart from Robert Redford. In a brand new interview, the “Blue Moon” star opened up about how the Hollywood icon not solely championed considered one of his most beloved movies, “Earlier than Dawn,” but in addition gave him a bit of favor recommendation that also makes him snicker many years later. The Oscar-nominated actor, now 54, mirrored on the early days of his profession, sharing how Redford’s perception in him modified every little thing, and why he didn’t take the Sundance founder’s wardrobe suggestion too severely. The change supplied followers a uncommon glimpse into the friendship between two generations of actors, one marked by mutual respect, gratitude, and humor.

Throughout his sit-down with AARP’s “Movies for Grownups,” Hawke recalled how Redford was one of many first main Hollywood figures to acknowledge his potential, even when others didn’t. “He was very useful and type to me once I was youthful,” Hawke shared. “He was the primary actual champion of ‘Earlier than Dawn.’ Lots of people weren’t fascinated with that film when it first got here out.”

In keeping with Hawke, Redford’s help was instrumental in getting the movie observed. “He made us the opening evening of the Sundance Movie Competition [1995] and he launched the movie, made it seem to be it was an actual correct film,” Hawke defined, including that the second gave the undertaking instantaneous legitimacy and helped launch his profession as each an actor and author.

Whereas Redford’s mentorship got here with knowledge, it additionally got here with a dose of humor. Hawke revealed that the “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Child” legend as soon as pulled him apart with an surprising bit of favor recommendation. “The final time I noticed Robert Redford, he advised me to cease carrying cowboy hats as a result of folks will suppose I’m shedding my hair,” Hawke mentioned with a smile. “And I assumed that was actually humorous.”

When requested whether or not he adopted Redford’s suggestion, Hawke couldn’t assist however snicker. “No, I didn’t,” he admitted. “Like I mentioned, unasked-for recommendation isn’t listened to.”

For Hawke, Redford’s influence went far past fun or a bit of recommendation as a result of it represented the kind of mentorship that each younger artist desires of. Redford’s confidence in “Earlier than Dawn” not solely validated Hawke’s expertise but in addition helped open doorways for future artistic collaborations.

The actor continues to carry deep admiration for Redford’s generosity and management, crediting him as probably the most influential figures in his creative journey.

Elsewhere within the interview, Hawke turned his consideration towards Hollywood’s future, sharing the rising stars who’ve captured his admiration. Although hesitant to single anybody out, the “Coaching Day” actor named just a few younger abilities he believes are paving the way in which ahead.

“I get insecure about saying one individual,” he started, “however Paul Mescalexcites me, he’s terrific. Jacob Elordi is nice, and John David Washington is phenomenal. There are such a lot of folks.”