Austin Butler proved he isn’t afraid of a little danger while attending the London premiere of “Caught Stealing,” stepping in to protect co-star Zoë Kravitz from a persistent bee. The actor, 34, remained calm and composed as the insect buzzed around Kravitz, ensuring she stayed safe during the photo calls. This was not Butler’s first red carpet bee encounter, but his swift reaction highlighted both his presence of mind and protective instincts, drawing attention from fans and the press alike for his fearless approach.
Key Highlights
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Austin Butler protected Zoë Kravitz from a bee at the London premiere of “Caught Stealing”
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This marked Butler’s second notable red carpet bee encounter, previously helping Emma Stone in Cannes
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Butler gained 35 pounds for his role as Hank in the Darren Aronofsky film
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On-screen chemistry with Kravitz has fueled off-screen romance rumors
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Butler praised director Darren Aronofsky for focusing on physical details, including baseball players’ physiques
The Red Carpet Incident
During the UK premiere, a rogue bee caused a brief scare as Butler and Kravitz posed for photos. Both actors waved at the insect, but the bee’s attention soon turned toward Butler. He maintained a calm demeanor, watching the bee carefully until it finally flew away without incident. The moment showcased his quick reflexes and willingness to step in when a co-star needed help.
Past Bee Encounters
Butler previously displayed similar instincts during the Cannes Film Festival premiere of “Eddington” in May. A bee buzzed near Emma Stone and co-star Pedro Pascal, causing Stone to visibly flinch and duck. Butler attempted to blow the bee away, prioritizing Stone’s safety even as the insect hovered persistently around the trio. These repeated incidents have earned him recognition for his composure and protective nature on the red carpet.
Preparing for “Caught Stealing”
Beyond red carpet heroics, Butler immersed himself in the physical demands of his role as Hank, a former baseball star turned bartender caught up in 1990s New York crime.
“I actually have a whole section of just baseball players’ asses that [Aronofsky] would send me.”
“He was like, ‘Look how thick they are!’” – Austin Butler
The actor gained 35 pounds to authentically portray a character struggling with alcohol, demonstrating his dedication to the craft. Kravitz plays Yvonne, Hank’s love interest, in the film, adding depth to the story and on-screen chemistry.
Off-Screen Chemistry
Butler and Kravitz’s interactions have sparked off-screen romance speculation. Following Kravitz’s split from Channing Tatum in October 2024, sources said her playful connection with Butler was lighthearted.
“With Austin, it’s an opportunity to have fun, keep her mind off things right now.” – a source told in April.
“I’m sure she’s not the happiest with what happened [with Tatum]; it’s a good way for her to have fun and hang out. Who wouldn’t be interested in Zoe?” – Source
“She is gaining the clout that can definitely help someone’s career. He’s [Butler] the ‘it’ guy in Hollywood, she’s the ‘it’ girl. I’m sure he’s not opposed to the attention.” – Source
News in Brief: Austin Butler’s Red Carpet Bee Incident
At the London premiere of “Caught Stealing,” Austin Butler protected co-star Zoë Kravitz from a rogue bee, demonstrating his composure and quick reflexes. This was his second notable red carpet bee encounter, having previously helped Emma Stone at Cannes. Butler gained 35 pounds to play Hank, a former baseball star turned bartender in the film directed by Darren Aronofsky. Off-screen chemistry with Kravitz has fueled romance rumors following her split from Channing Tatum.
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