Kaylah Walton
Brad Pitt has enjoyed a remarkable career in Hollywood for over thirty years, yet even he can find himself starstruck.
In an honest discussion on the New Heights podcast hosted by Jason and Travis Kelce, the 61-year-old actor shared that only two women in the film industry have ever left him virtually speechless.
“The moment I first encountered Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon, I was taken aback. Yeah,” Pitt recalled, reminiscing about the filming of Thelma & Louise. “But I got over it pretty quickly.”
Pitt made a name for himself portraying the charming drifter J.D. in the iconic 1991 film, which catapulted him to fame, yet back then, he was just an aspiring actor hoping to make a mark.
According to Sarandon, he certainly made an impression. The actress from Dead Man Walking mentioned that his “sense of humor” alongside his “looks and fit physique” really stood out to her.
A pivotal moment in Pitt’s rise to stardom
Thelma & Louise was not only a significant film for Pitt professionally but also personally. During a 2023 interview with W Magazine, he spoke of Geena Davis as “so sweet, gentle, and delicate” during their intense love scene, emphasizing the film’s depth.
Davis reflected similar feelings in a 2021 interview with Extra, saying of Pitt, “I realized, ‘Wow, he’s more than just a stunning face.'”
Aside from sharing memories of his career beginnings, Pitt took time in the podcast to express his enthusiasm for football, particularly the Kansas City Chiefs.
When tight end Travis Kelce expressed regret over their recent Super Bowl defeat, Pitt responded graciously: “That’s just how life is. Life challenges you… it’s all about how you navigate those hardships and bounce back,” he observed.
Pitt opens up about sobriety and personal growth
While keeping the podcast conversation focused on his career and sports, Pitt has also been forthcoming about his deeper struggles.
In a different episode of Dax Shepard‘s Armchair Expert, the actor talked about seeking support following his breakup with Angelina Jolie. “It was a tough phase. I needed a reset,” Pitt admitted, noting that he started going to AA meetings.
Initially feeling anxious, he found motivation in the fellowship, stating, “It empowers you to think, ‘Alright, I’ll take this leap and see what unfolds.’ Eventually, I came to appreciate it.”
Pitt commended Shepard for his openness regarding his own relapses, remarking, “I found it incredible to hear men share their vulnerabilities, mistakes, desires, and pains with humor intertwined.”
Growing up in Missouri, Pitt was raised among men who often hid their feelings. He now understands the importance of breaking that pattern. “The typical response was, ‘Everything’s fine,'” he noted, but now embraces honesty as a form of strength.
