Kathryn Hahn reflects on career risks and friendship with Kate Hudson, sharing insights from their journey as co-stars in
“How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days”
to present-day successes on TV. Their enduring connection and willingness to embrace change highlight both actresses’ dedication to growth and authenticity in their personal and professional lives.
A Memorable Start in Hollywood
Two decades ago, Kathryn Hahn and Kate Hudson embodied best friends navigating the world of romance in the famed romantic comedy,
“How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days.”
For Hahn, this film marked her first movie experience. She recalls the impact of working alongside Hudson and entering the world of Hollywood with her as a guiding presence.
“To have you as the lead of it was so grounding. I don’t know what I imagined it would be like, but I certainly didn’t imagine it to feel just so freaking fun and loose and supported.”
—Kathryn Hahn
At that time, Hudson had already achieved acclaim for her breakout performance in Cameron Crowe’s “Almost Famous.” The now-iconic poster, featuring her close-up, was a milestone that even affected her personal life.
“I remember thinking, ‘I hope every ex-boyfriend I’ve ever had sees this,’”
—Kate Hudson, highlighting how surreal the experience was.
Shifting to Television: Comedy and New Ventures
Hahn and Hudson have since moved onto prominent roles on television, each taking on comedic and adventurous parts. Hahn transitioned from Marvel’s “WandaVision,” where she impressed as Agatha Harkness, to the lead in “Agatha All Along,” bringing her signature wit and energy. Additionally, Hahn portrays an eccentric marketing executive in Apple TV+’s “The Studio,” where she continues to explore new comedic territory.
Meanwhile, Hudson leans into physical comedy with her role as the head of a family basketball team in Netflix’s “Running Point.” Beyond acting, she took a leap and debuted her first music album, “Glorious,” which topped charts, showcasing her versatility as a performer.
Reunion and Lasting Friendship
Despite their busy schedules, Hahn and Hudson’s bond has remained resilient. As Hudson notes,
“We haven’t seen each other in a year, which is so crazy.”
Hahn adds,
“It kind of tracks for us. We don’t see each other for a really long time, and then we jump right back into it like no time has passed.”
They reminisce about their first audition together, recalling the nerves, mishaps, and chemistry that set the stage for their friendship. Hudson reveals,
“You came in and you were just like, ‘Oh my God. I’m so sorry. I couldn’t find the parking.’”
—Kate Hudson; she immediately felt connected to Hahn’s genuine nature. The chaos of the audition, the interruptions, and even a call from Hahn’s friend Patrick became endearing moments that solidified their bond.
Their friendship also extends into their professional journeys, having reunited on “Glass Onion,” an experience both hold dear. Over the years, their shared humor, support, and creative collaboration have deepened their connection.
Personal Touchstones and Emotional Journeys
Conversation between the actresses reveals how they draw on personal symbols and emotional anchors for their roles. Hahn explains the importance of a character’s locket in “Agatha All Along,” describing how it contains elements representing feminine archetypes and a piece of her character’s son’s hair. Serendipitously, her family gifted her a real locket with their own hair, reinforcing her emotional connection to the part.
Hudson discusses her approach to the character Isla on “Running Point.” Her sense of being the family’s only girl mirrored her own life, grounding her performance.
“I just want my brothers to see me as able.”
—Kate Hudson, addressing her drive to be perceived as competent by her siblings, Oliver Hudson and Wyatt Russell.
In terms of creative control, Hahn reflects on the vibrant wardrobe choices for her “Studio” character Maya, embracing bold and flashy costumes. She jokes about defying the classic advice of restraint, saying,
“Put two more things back on, and they both have to say Prada.”
—Kathryn Hahn, describing the exaggerated sartorial choices and their impact.
Risk-Taking and Career Evolution
Both Hahn and Hudson describe pushing past comfort zones in their creative endeavors. Hahn praises Hudson’s courage in launching a music career, recounting a private listening experience that left her in awe.
“Because a lot of people don’t have the fricking guts to go for it; you think you’re in a box — this is who you are. But to put yourself out there with that much openness, it’s really moving to me. And it’s inspiring to so many women. It’s like, you don’t just have to do what you’ve been doing; you can change.”
—Kathryn Hahn
Hudson shares that the pandemic prompted her to rethink her life’s direction. She confronted her fears about untapped potential and the risk of leaving aspirations unfulfilled. The urge to model bravery for her children motivated her to pursue new opportunities without hesitance.
“What am I putting out there?”
—Kate Hudson. She found meaning not just in success, but in the act of trying and demonstrating fearlessness.
She acknowledges the difficulty of embracing the unknown and the vulnerability of public pursuit.
“And then you have to be like, fuck it! It’s either going to resonate or it won’t, but it doesn’t matter at that point. It means so much to hear you say that. I mean, I know there’s cameras rolling and now I’m crying on Actors on Actors.”
—Kate Hudson
The intense energy and emotion of their conversation hint at the passion fueling both women’s careers. Hahn quips,
“I feel like Barbara Walters. I really should’ve known this was going to happen.”
—Kathryn Hahn, a nod to the depth of their exchange.
Legacy of Support and Inspiration
The enduring friendship between these two actresses stands as a testament to the value of genuine connection in a challenging industry. Their honest reflections about career risks, emotional moments, and creativity inspire both audiences and fellow performers. Their willingness to take chances and remain true to themselves has shaped not just their own paths, but encourages others to pursue growth despite fears and obstacles.
As Kathryn Hahn reflects on career risks and friendship with Kate Hudson, their ongoing stories continue to influence conversations in film, television, and beyond. Their willingness to open up about their journeys not only celebrates their achievements, but also lights the way for others seeking their own sense of fulfillment and fearless creativity.
