Jason Statham, the acclaimed action star known for his intense roles since the late 1990s, has shared that he is deeply inspired by Paul Newman, revealing that classic Newman films helped shape his approach to acting. Statham’s admiration for Newman’s legacy sets him apart from some of his contemporaries, and highlights how Jason Statham is inspired by Paul Newman movies in both career and film choices.
Statham’s Admiration for Newman’s Work and Standout Films
Throughout the 21st century, Statham has maintained a dominant presence in the action film genre, starring in projects such as Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch, which made him a household name. While he is frequently compared to icons like Bruce Willis, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Sylvester Stallone, Statham credits Paul Newman as his favorite actor and the reason he is drawn to movies in the first place. According to Statham, Newman exemplifies an effortless charisma and coolness that he strives to capture on screen.
Statham remembers how his parents introduced him to the 1967 classic Cool Hand Luke, which quickly became a favorite. As he recalls, he could revisit the movie repeatedly because Newman
“is just the coolest dude ever.”
—Paul Newman, Actor. Cool Hand Luke stands as a pivotal film not just for Statham, but for many film fans, as it redefined the prison drama, delved into the complexities of masculinity, and showcased Newman’s unparalleled charm, comic timing, and strength.
Statham confessed that the impact of Cool Hand Luke led him to seek out Paul Newman’s other work, stating he had
“been hooked on most of his movies ever since,”
—Paul Newman, Actor. This ongoing fascination speaks to a professional kinship Statham feels with Newman, particularly in the qualities they both bring to their screen personas.
Beyond Cool Hand Luke, Statham cites Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Sting as influential Newman films. Both were major crowd-pleasers from the Hollywood era and paired Newman with Robert Redford in roles that involved intelligent, intricate heists and memorable character dynamics. Statham’s career reflects a similar attraction to heist and crime films—appearing in titles like The Bank Job, Parker, Safe, and The Italian Job remake. In these projects, much as Newman did, Statham thrives in ensemble casts and high-stakes plots, often elevating his performance when bouncing off co-stars such as Stephen Graham.
Mirroring Newman’s Persona in Modern Action Cinema
Paul Newman was renowned for portraying anti-establishment figures who questioned authority and refused to conform. This thread of rebellion can be seen in Statham’s own filmography, including roles in The Beekeeper and Wrath of Man, where he embodies justice-seekers operating outside the law. The parallels extend to their willingness to challenge typecasting: Newman was nominated for an Oscar for his portrayal of a criminal boss in Road to Perdition and embraced comedic turns, such as his role in the sports comedy Slap Shot. Similarly, Statham affectionately mocked his “tough guy” reputation by playing an exaggerated secret agent in Spy.
Both actors share attributes of stoicism, generosity, and an intolerance for wrongdoing, making them enduringly popular. For Newman, the ability to act across a wide spectrum of morally complex characters cemented his status as a Hollywood legend. Statham follows suit, taking on varied roles from understated dramas to slick action thrillers—as seen in Hummingbird and Homefront—emphasizing a multi-dimensional approach to screen performance.
Newman’s longevity in the industry, working into his later years up to his voice role in Cars, presents a model that Statham may follow. At present, Statham continues to command leading roles, appealing to audiences drawn to his unique blend of intensity and charm. If he mirrors Newman’s enduring dedication, the public may continue to see his influence in the genre for years to come.
The Lasting Influence of Newman on Statham and Cinema
The parallels between Jason Statham and Paul Newman highlight a throughline of classic star power and versatility in Hollywood. Statham’s honesty about being shaped by Newman’s filmography, from legendary heist stories to irreverent comedies, not only underscores Newman’s ongoing impact, but also offers insight into the evolution of action cinema. With Jason Statham inspired by Paul Newman movies, a new generation of film fans recognize the timeless appeal and dynamic range both actors bring to the screen. As Statham’s own career shows no signs of slowing, the influence of Paul Newman lives on in the performances of those who honor his legacy.
