Jodie Foster Reflects on Hollywood Career, Advises New Generation in Candid Interview
Acclaimed actress shares maternal advice and opens up about regrets and resilience
In a recent interview with Elle for their 2023 Women in Hollywood issue, Jodie Foster, a Hollywood veteran since her youth, offered valuable advice to emerging actresses and shared insights into her own career journey. The 61-year-old actress, known for her Oscar-winning performances and directorial accomplishments, expressed a maternal concern for young stars facing the challenges of fame.
Foster emphasized the importance of mentorship and revealed that she often reaches out to younger actresses, offering guidance on navigating the pressures of publicity tours and self-sabotage. Drawing from her own experiences, Foster highlighted the need for a supportive figure akin to the maternal influence she had during her early years in the industry.
Reflecting on her groundbreaking role in Martin Scorsese’s “Taxi Driver,” which earned her the first Oscar nomination of her career, Foster acknowledged the transformative impact it had on her perspective on acting as a craft rather than a mere hobby. Subsequently, her career flourished with notable achievements, including two Best Actress Oscar wins for “The Accused” and “Silence of the Lambs.”
Despite her success, Foster acknowledged the male-dominated environment of her early career, expressing gratitude for the mentorship she received from older men in the industry. Her journey into directing and producing paved the way for other women in the field, a fact she is proud of.
However, the accomplished actress-director revealed regrets about her younger self, apologizing for being self-involved and unaware of her privileges during her twenties. Foster admitted to being a “terrible friend” due to her busy shooting schedule, recognizing the personal cost of early fame and success.
In addressing the challenges of the modern entertainment industry, Foster expressed concern about the toxic nature of celebrity culture and the impact of social media on young people. Despite the potential benefits for her career, she consciously avoids social media, prioritizing her well-being over increased access and success.
Foster concluded the interview by sharing her perspective on aging and the freedom it brings to prioritize activities she loves. Unfazed by external opinions, she encouraged embracing change with age and finding joy in supporting others, stating that acting in her sixties is more enjoyable than anything she has done before.