Some in Hollywood once found it 'irritating.' But Ethan Hawke refuses to be typecast

As a young actor, Ethan Hawke’s eagerness to explore diverse roles sometimes created tension early in his career. This fall, that passion for 'shaking it up' has brought him major parts in The Lowdown, Blue Moon, and Black Phone 2.

Ethan Hawke has consistently surprised audiences throughout his prolific career, moving fluidly between prestige drama, quirky comedy, and intense horror, embracing each role with unwavering commitment.

Unlikely Convergence of Roles in 2025

This year stands out with a unique mix of projects. In Richard Linklater’s Blue Moon, Hawke portrays real-life songwriter Lorenz Hart, a complex figure full of contradictions. On FX’s The Lowdown, created by Hawke’s friend Sterlin Harjo, he plays Lee Raybon, an impulsive journalist. Meanwhile, in Black Phone 2, he takes on the chilling role of a serial killer haunting children from beyond the grave.

“It makes you believe in astrology or something. All these disparate parts of my life are being released at the same time. I’ve been so worried about this whole aging process. But the great thing about it is that the roles get a lot more complicated. They get fewer, but the ones you get are complicated and interesting. I feel astonished to have been doing this job for 30 years and have two of the best parts I’ve ever had this year,”

— Ethan Hawke, speaking over Zoom from New York City

Remarkably, Hawke has been planning to embody Lorenz Hart for more than ten years, highlighting his commitment to challenging and meaningful roles.

Summary

Ethan Hawke’s refusal to be typecast keeps his career vibrant, with 2025 bringing a rare convergence of complex and rewarding roles that reflect his evolution as an actor.

Los Angeles Times — 2025-11-06