Ethan Hawke's Playful and Emotional London Weekend
Acclaimed American actor Ethan Hawke, 55, has offered a surprisingly candid glimpse into his personal life during a recent high-profile event in London. The star, known for his roles in films like Dead Poets Society, Training Day, and Boyhood, made what he described as an "incredibly vulgar" confession while playing a game of Jenga at British Vogue's Fashion & Film after-party, held in collaboration with GQ following the Baftas ceremony.
A Cheeky Bedroom Revelation
During a brief interview segment at the party, Hawke was asked the lighthearted question: 'Is it bad to eat in bed?' Putting on his sunglasses and trying to maintain composure, the actor admitted that vulgar thoughts were crossing his mind. He then declared with a laugh, 'I like to eat in bed, but I don't eat food.' Recognizing the provocative nature of his statement, Hawke quickly giggled and moved on to answer other questions about dinner timing and forgotten essentials.
This playful moment comes as Hawke enjoys significant professional recognition. He is currently nominated for the Best Actor Oscar at next month's Academy Awards for his portrayal of lyricist Lorenz Hart in the biopic Blue Moon. Although he didn't win the Best Actor Bafta this weekend—losing to Robert Aramayo for I Swear—Hawke appeared in good spirits at the after-party.
Emotional Tribute at the Baftas
The London trip wasn't all playful banter for Hawke. During the Baftas ceremony itself, the veteran actor was visibly moved when winner Robert Aramayo paid tribute to him during an emotional acceptance speech. Aramayo, 33, who won for his performance as Tourette's syndrome campaigner John Davidson in I Swear, thanked Hawke for inspiring him during a talk at Juilliard drama school years earlier.
'Ethan Hawke came to speak to us at Juilliard and he gave an amazing talk on longevity as an actor, protecting your instrument and avoiding self-destructive behaviors,' Aramayo explained from the stage. 'It had a great impact on everyone in that room, so to be in this category with you tonight is incredible. Thank you Ethan!'
The camera captured Hawke's emotional reaction in the audience, showing him hiding his face in his hands as he fought back tears before smiling and nodding at the young actor. This poignant moment highlighted Hawke's influence on the next generation of performers.
A Storied Career and Personal Life
Hawke's four-decade career has earned him numerous accolades, including an Emmy Award and nominations for five Oscars, three Golden Globes, two Baftas, and a Tony Award. His personal life has also drawn public attention over the years. He was married to actress Uma Thurman from 1998 to 2003, with whom he shares children Maya and Levon (both now actors). The divorce occurred amidst allegations of infidelity.
In a rare comment last year, Hawke told The New York Times about the challenges of divorce in the public eye: 'The public eye is like gasoline, but what makes divorce hard is the stuff that makes it hard for everyone—the family elements, how to help the kids through it.' He expressed envy for those with amicable splits but noted he had promised his children not to discuss it publicly further.
Hawke remarried in 2008 to Ryan Shawhughes, who had briefly worked as a nanny for his children during his marriage to Thurman. The couple maintains they only got together a year after his divorce was finalized. They now share daughters Clementine Jean and Indiana. Hawke has spoken fondly of his current wife, revealing: 'When I split up I was hellbent on not having any more kids and I wanted to be single for the rest of my life. But then I made a best friend and I liked kissing her.'
From playful confessions to emotional tributes, Ethan Hawke's London weekend showcased both his irreverent humor and his profound impact on the acting community, reminding audiences why he remains one of Hollywood's most compelling figures after forty years in the spotlight.
