Hollywood star Brad Pitt has shared his candid thoughts on the challenges facing the next generation of actors, urging them to resist the pressure to join big-budget franchises or superhero films. Speaking during an interview as part of his promotional tour for F1, Pitt reflected on how the entertainment industry has evolved since his own rise to fame.
In remarks reported by Variety, the Oscar-winning actor expressed both admiration for today’s young talent and concern over the overwhelming expectations placed upon them. While he acknowledged that modern actors have greater freedom to explore diverse artistic paths, he warned of the dangers of becoming “caught up” in the relentless pursuit of box-office-driven roles.
“I like watching what the new generation is coming in with,” Pitt said. “I like to see what they are up against and the way they negotiate and work their way through it. They enjoy it more. We were more uptight and it had to be about acting… like, you didn’t sell out, you didn’t sell out. But now it’s like, ‘We can be artists in many different arenas, so let’s do it and let’s enjoy it.’”
However, Pitt also voiced concern about a growing industry trend, particularly the pressure young actors feel to secure roles in franchises or superhero blockbusters. “But they also get caught up in you ‘have to have a franchise’ or ‘have to have a superhero.’ But I keep saying, ‘Don’t! Don’t! They’ll die,’” he said, cautioning that such roles can be creatively and emotionally draining. He described the experience as potentially being a “killer” for rising talent.
Pitt has largely avoided the superhero genre and big franchise commitments throughout his career, despite a brief cameo in Deadpool 2. Instead, he has remained focused on projects that allow for greater creative freedom, a decision that has helped him maintain longevity and artistic integrity in the industry.
His philosophy echoes that of his Once Upon a Time in Hollywood co-star Leonardo DiCaprio, who is also known for steering clear of superhero franchises. DiCaprio famously offered similar advice to Dune star Timothée Chalamet, warning him to avoid “superhero movies” and “hard drugs.” Chalamet, who credits the superhero film The Dark Knight with sparking his passion for acting, has taken the advice to heart, though he remains open to superhero roles under the right circumstances.
As for Pitt’s own future, his recent racing drama F1 has become a massive success, earning the biggest opening weekend in Apple’s history. Reports suggest that a sequel is already in discussion. Additionally, there is speculation that Pitt may reprise his role in a sequel to Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, with acclaimed director David Fincher reportedly attached to helm the project for Netflix.
Pitt’s stance offers a timely reminder to young actors to prioritise artistic fulfilment over the allure of blockbuster fame, a message that resonates in an industry increasingly dominated by franchises.
