Ethan Hawke Recalls The Time When Robert Redford Roasted His Style

Ethan Hawke It is giving credit where it is due, nothing else Robert Redford. In a new interview, the “Blue Moon” star talked about how the Hollywood icon not only championed one of his most beloved films, “Before Sunrise,” but also gave him style advice that still makes him laugh decades later. The Oscar-nominated actor, now 54, opened up about the early days of his career, sharing how Redford’s faith in him changed everything, and why he didn’t take the Sundance founder’s wardrobe suggestion seriously. The exchange provided audiences with a rare glimpse into the friendship between two generations of actors, one marked by mutual respect, gratitude and humor.

During his interview with AARP’s “Movies for Adults” program, Hawke recalled how Redford was one of the first major figures in Hollywood to realize his potential, even when others did not. “He was very helpful and kind to me when I was younger,” Hawk said. “He was the first real lead of ‘Before Sunrise.’ Not many people were interested in that movie when it first came out.

According to Hawke, Redford’s support was instrumental in getting the film noticed. “We made it opening night of the Sundance Film Festival [1995] “He made the movie, made it look like a real live movie,” Hawke explained, adding that that moment gave the project instant legitimacy and helped launch his career as an actor and writer.

While Redford’s mentorship came with wisdom, it also came with a dose of humor. Hawke revealed that the “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” legend once pulled him aside with unexpected style advice. “The last time I saw Robert Redford, he told me to stop wearing cowboy hats because people would think I was losing my hair,” Hawke said with a smile. “And I thought that was really funny.”

When asked if he followed Redford’s suggestion, Hawke couldn’t help but laugh. “No, I didn’t,” he admitted. “Like I said, unsolicited advice is never listened to.”

For Hawke, Redford’s influence goes beyond laughter or advice because he represents the kind of mentorship every young artist dreams of. Redford’s confidence in Before Sunrise not only validated Hawke’s talent, but also helped open doors for future creative collaborations.

The actor still holds deep admiration for Redford’s generosity and leadership, and credits him as one of the most influential figures in his artistic journey.

Elsewhere in the interview, Hawke turned his attention to the future of Hollywood, sharing which rising stars he admired. Although he was hesitant to choose anyone, the ‘Training Day’ actor named some young talents who he believes are paving the way forward.

“I feel unsafe telling one person, but,” he began Paul MescalIt excites me, it’s great. Jacob Al-Wardi Great, John David Washington is exceptional. There are a lot of people.”