Laura Dern On Her Inspirations, Career Challenges, And Hollywood's Complexities

When you think of Laura Dern, the first thing that comes to mind might be her incredible performances in dramatic roles. But did you know that she grew up idolizing Lucille Ball? In a candid interview with Vanity Fair for their February 2019 cover story, the 51-year-old actress opened up about her admiration for the legendary comedian. "Lucy had this unique ability to approach her dreams with such creative and unconventional methods," Laura recalled. She noticed a shift in Lucy's demeanor after her divorce from Desi Arnaz and her transition to The Lucy Show. "Life had been tough for her, and something inside her seemed to change," Laura reflected. "When I watched her during that period, I realized I never wanted to let bitterness take over my life."

Just like Lucy, Laura has faced her fair share of challenges. Her marriage to musician Ben Harper ended in 2013, and she's experienced setbacks in her career. Despite these obstacles, Laura has always stayed true to herself, choosing not to participate in the casting couch culture. Her father, actor Bruce Dern, even joked about his role in the 1972 film The Cowboys, where he famously killed John Wayne. "My dad might just be out to get you, too," Laura quipped with a laugh.

Guidance from Family

Bruce and Diane Ladd, Laura's parents, were protective of their daughter's career path. They didn't want her to become just another Hollywood celebrity; instead, they encouraged her to focus on character-driven roles that would allow her to develop her craft. "They wanted me to build a strong foundation of work," Laura explained. "Their hope was that I would have my most exciting and fulfilling years as a mature adult in the industry." This guidance shaped her career, leading her to take on challenging roles that showcased her versatility and depth as an actress.

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Challenges in Hollywood

Even with the support of her parents, Laura couldn't escape the harsh realities of Hollywood. As a child actor, she encountered situations that tested her boundaries. "I started making movies at the age of 11, and by 13, I was on location, which is a whole different world," she shared. "I remember every single compromised moment. Being a child, I didn't fully understand the inappropriate behavior I faced from adults. I justified it as my misunderstanding, but looking back, I experienced everything short of assault." Laura's honesty about her experiences highlights the importance of safeguarding young actors in the entertainment industry.