In a recent interview, actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson opened up about his early career in Hollywood and revealed that he often felt uncomfortable working on projects with more adult themes as a young actor. He admitted that he took smaller or more obscure roles because he could “smell the bullshit” of those who were interested in making him into a star. Taylor-Johnson’s comments came as part of an Esquire cover story promoting his upcoming film “Kraven the Hunter.”
According to the interview, Taylor-Johnson felt overwhelmed by the culture of the Los Angeles-based industry when he first experienced success as a young performer. He confided in his parents, expressing that he didn’t want to conform to the expectations that others had for him in the industry. This feeling stayed with him for years, particularly when he became a young father and didn’t want to be taken away from his two children with his wife, director Sam Taylor-Johnson.
Taylor-Johnson recalled that he could sense the insincerity and manipulation within the Hollywood industry, which led him to choose roles more selectively. However, even when he tried to be cautious about the projects he took on, he found himself in uncomfortable situations as an actor from a very young age. He shared a story about his West End role in “Macbeth,” where he was required to appear fully naked in a bathtub on stage three nights a week. While he acknowledged feeling uncomfortable, he didn’t elaborate on the topic, making it clear that the interview wasn’t meant to be therapy.
The actor also discussed his working relationship with his wife, Sam Taylor-Johnson. The couple first collaborated on their 2009 film “Nowhere Boy,” where Aaron portrayed a young John Lennon. When questioned about their personal chemistry being rooted in creative partnership, he disagreed, stating that their connection was not solely based on their work together. He explained that while they are great at collaborating, their love for each other goes beyond their professional lives.
Their relationship has faced criticism due to the significant age gap between them when they first got together at the ages of 19 and 41. Aaron defended their love, explaining that his feelings for Sam were a gut instinct, and their decision to start a family together was something he had always known. He shared that by the age of 10 or 11, he already felt a strong desire to have a big family and become a young father.
While Aaron Taylor-Johnson was open and honest about his personal life and career, he also made it clear that there are certain aspects he prefers to keep private and precious to himself. He expressed his willingness to discuss his children and his wife in the interview but acknowledged that there are limits to what he feels comfortable sharing with the public.
Overall, Aaron Taylor-Johnson’s interview provides insight into his early experiences in Hollywood, his cautious approach to choosing roles, and the deep connection he shares with his wife and family. It shows that he has navigated the challenges of the industry while remaining true to himself and his values.