Ethan Hawke Advises Maya Hawke Post-‘Stranger Things’ Career Steps

Ethan Hawke recently discussed his work in the historical action-drama film “The Weight” at the Sundance Film Festival. In the movie, set during the Great Depression, he plays a widowed father who is separated from his daughter and sentenced to a brutal work camp. The character faces dangerous challenges, including smuggling gold through a treacherous wilderness for a chance to reunite with his child.

Ethan Hawke’s Commitment to Authenticity

Hawke performed many of his own stunts in the film, including driving vintage cars and engaging in physical confrontations. He remarked on the expectations placed on actors today, crediting Tom Cruise for raising the bar for physical performances in cinema.

“What I liked about our movie is that it’s human,” Hawke shared. “It’s not about things blowing up, so most of the stunts were things we could do.” Director Padraic McKinley confirmed Hawke’s dedication, noting he performed nearly all stunts, except for one difficult scene which required a wide shot.

The Central Theme of “The Weight”

The film’s essence revolves around the profound bond between a father and daughter. “It’s about love,” Hawke explained. He reflected that his parental experiences shaped his portrayal, emphasizing that real emotions enhance the storytelling in action films.

Filmmaking as a Family Endeavor

Hawke’s familial relationship with filmmaking extends to his daughter, Maya Hawke. He directed her in the 2023 indie film “Wildcat,” a biographical drama about Flannery O’Connor. While Ethan handled the direction, he expressed a desire to act alongside Maya in the future.

Advice for Maya Hawke

With the conclusion of her role as Robin Buckley in Netflix’s “Stranger Things,” Ethan shared his thoughts on Maya’s next steps. He encouraged her to embrace new opportunities and urged, “Time to move on. You got to do it, and move on. Don’t look back.”

Ethan Hawke’s Current Projects and Aspirations

The 55-year-old actor maintains a busy schedule with numerous projects lined up. In 2025, he appeared in films such as “Blue Moon” and “Black Phone 2,” along with television series like “The Lowdown” and “The American Revolution.” He recently achieved his fifth Oscar nomination, securing recognition in the lead actor category for “Blue Moon.”

Reflecting on his relentless work ethic, Hawke questioned, “Why can’t I sit still? Why do I work so much?” He loves the filmmaking process, recalling how it captivated him from a young age. “Once you feel that connection with audiences, you chase it. I’m just chasing,” he concluded.