Kirsten Dunst, known for her role in The Power of the Dog, revealed a frightening health scare involving her younger son James while she was filming her latest movie, The Entertainment System Is Down, in Budapest earlier this year. The unexpected incident forced her family to make tough decisions amid the six-month shoot, highlighting the challenges of balancing work and parenting far from home.
Family Separation and Support During Crisis
Kirsten and her husband Jesse Plemons had relocated their family to Hungary in January, enrolling their older son Ennis in school there. However, when James fell seriously ill, Jesse quickly returned with both boys to Los Angeles to be near their extended family support, leaving Kirsten to continue filming alone in Budapest. She made a brief trip home in April to reunite with her family amid the ordeal.
Emotional Toll and Reflections on Motherhood
Although Kirsten Dunst did not disclose specifics of James’ condition, she confirmed that he has since fully recovered. The anxiety she endured resonated deeply with her role as a mother, likening the fear to scenarios from the film Final Destination.
Final Destination, where you’re imagining all the things that could go wrong, worst case scenarios happening to your child.
—Kirsten Dunst
I have never seen that movie,
she said.
But I know the concept. That’s how it feels to be a mother at times.
—Kirsten Dunst
Stronger Family Bonds and Cherished Moments Ahead
Time has allowed the family to heal and reflect on this scary episode, with Kirsten sharing how it ultimately brought them closer together. To celebrate James’ recovery, they planned a family vacation based on his wishes.
It brought us together as a family in such a deeper way
—Kirsten Dunst
The family decided on the Bahamas after James expressed a simple desire:
I want to go to a beach where my sandcastle won’t wash away.
—James (as relayed by Kirsten Dunst)
Glimpses into James’ Lively Personality
Kirsten, who usually keeps her private life out of the spotlight, recently shared lighthearted details about James during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live in April 2024.
He’s almost three and when he’s bad we call him Jimmy,
she said.
He’s out of control. We actually call him baby Chris Farley because of the way he walks around and he’s just hilarious. He’s a crazy little dude.
—Kirsten Dunst
Ongoing Journey for the Family
Kirsten Dunst’s candid discussion of her son James’ health scare highlights the realities many parents face, especially while managing demanding careers. Her story underscores how unexpected challenges can deepen family bonds and foster appreciation for life’s simple joys as they continue moving forward together.
