At the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, Channing Tatum shared candid insights about his relationship with his 12-year-old daughter, Everly Tatum, whom he shares with ex-wife Jenna Dewan. Discussing his daughter’s impression of his acting career, Tatum acknowledged that despite her exposure to many of his films, he feels he will never truly be “cool” in her eyes. This comment highlights a father’s humble perception of connecting with his child through his public work.
The actor made these remarks during the world premiere of his latest film, Roofman, when interviewed by Francesca Amiker from E! News. Reflecting on Everly’s reaction to seeing his movies, Tatum noted,
“She has seen tons of them,”
but added,
“She’s like, ‘Whatever, I don’t wanna see those.’ She acts like she doesn’t care.”
His honesty expressed the typical distancing many children might display toward their parents’ careers, especially in show business.
He concluded with a simple, revealing statement:
“I’m never gonna be cool to her.”
Inside the Making of Roofman and Channing’s Connection to His Role
Channing Tatum’s new movie, Roofman, tells the story of Jeffrey Manchester, a real-life criminal known for robbing fast food establishments from rooftops. While Everly has yet to fully engage with her father’s portrayal of Manchester, she visited the film set and is expected to watch the movie eventually. Tatum described the character’s sense of isolation after escaping prison and hiding for months, relating it to his personal filming experience.
“This whole movie, I’m in every frame of it and I don’t get a lot of time with people,”
Tatum shared.
“So a lot of the movie, I’m by myself. You don’t have your fellow actors there and then there are days that they show up and you’re like, ‘Oh hi!’ I get to be in a scene with someone and I’m not just on an island by myself.”
Through this, he connected his own solitude on set with the character’s experience of seclusion.
He further elaborated,
“I can imagine that’s a version of what he was feeling, just the isolation, and prison is the worst isolation. He put himself in a different prison in a toy store, but he’s doing the best he could with the best he had.”
This reflection reveals how Tatum immersed himself in the psychological state of Jeffrey Manchester while preparing for the role.
Physical and Mental Challenges During Film Preparation
Channing Tatum also recounted the toll his physical transformation took on his mental health while preparing for Roofman. Initially aiming to reach 185 pounds, his weight dropped further to about 172 pounds due to ongoing shooting schedules. This unexpected weight loss raised concerns from Mariela Comitini, the film’s assistant director.
“I was like, ‘I think you’re right. This is weird,’”
Tatum admitted.
“It was a sort of emptiness and a sadness to it. I would just see myself, and I would seem hollow. And the movie, a lot for me, was a lot on loneliness, and a real meditation for that wanting to be full and trying to fill an empty vessel.”
He added poignantly,
“That empty feeling sucks after a little while.”
This confession sheds light on the deep emotional and physical sacrifices actors sometimes endure to bring authenticity to demanding roles.
Notable Appearances at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival
The 2025 Toronto International Film Festival showcased a diverse array of talent across its many film premieres, drawing numerous stars from around the world. Among the attendees was Robert Aramayo, known for The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, who appeared on September 5th. Actor Ben Foster chose a distinctive black-and-white suit combination for his presence at TIFF’s second night, displaying his signature mix of sophistication and ruggedness.
Billy Howle embraced an elegant style at the premiere of Outlaw King, while Shameless star Jess Gabor impressed guests with a radiant yellow ensemble. Katy O’Brian, from Love Lies Bleeding, opted for glamor, complementing Sydney Sweeney’s stunning pink corseted gown from the Erdem Resort 2026 collection.
Chad L. Coleman, recognized for his role in The Walking Dead, appeared dapper, and Masaki Saito contributed a cultural touch by posing in a traditional Japanese yukata. Saudi actress Mila Al Zahrani captivated audiences in an off-white gown, and Oscar-winning actor Cillian Murphy was another highlight at the Canadian festival.
Auden Thornton stood out in a flowing emerald-green gown with braided off-shoulder and pleated details, while Latin Grammy winner J Balvin made his feature film debut with The Choral. Actor Stephen Amell attended the same film’s premiere, contributing to the evening’s star power.
The international presence was palpable with director Sho Kasamatsu, along with Byun Sung-hyun, Sul Kyung-gu, and Hong Kyung, arriving for the Good News premiere. On the red carpet, Ryan Reynolds, famed for Deadpool, and Colin Hanks, known for King Kong, balanced elegance and casual flair.
Further attendees included Oscar nominee Ethan Hawke, Reacher lead Alan Ritchson, and ALIAS actor Kevin Weisman, who appeared with a laid-back style. Musician Wyclef Jean brought a vibrant tropical and street look, while Cary Elwes lit up the red carpet with his smile.
Rappers and actors alike mingled, with Fat Joe posing beside Diego Boneta at the Lean Back rapper’s appearance. Actress Renate Reinsve made a statement wearing a Jacquard bustier gown softened by blue-and-black floral overlay, and Elle Fanning showcased Valentino’s 2026 Resort collection under the creative direction of Alessandro Michele.
Ben Foster returned in a sharp two-piece suit paired with a tank top, radiating rugged charm, and Shailene Woodley attended for the premiere of her new film Motor City. Devon Bostick, from Diary of a Wimpy Kid, also attended, followed by Barbie Ferreira, who stunned in a black lace dress at the premiere of Mile End Kicks.
Key players Jay Baruchel and his wife Rebecca-Jo Dunham arrived ahead of the film’s world premiere, while Stanley Simons, known for The Iron Claw, walked the red carpet for his upcoming starring role in the same film. Lastly, Schitt’s Creek star Eugene Levy appeared to celebrate and honor John Candy during the premiere of the documentary John Candy: I Like Me.
The Continuing Influence of TIFF and Its Global Reach
The 2025 Toronto International Film Festival remains a vital platform for filmmakers, actors, and creatives to present their work, engage with audiences, and celebrate cinema. Events like these offer actors such as Channing Tatum a stage not only to promote their latest projects but also to reveal personal aspects of their lives and careers, as seen in his reflections on fatherhood and his craft.
For audiences and industry insiders alike, the festival’s blend of high-profile premieres and intimate moments underscores the ongoing importance of TIFF as a cultural and cinematic landmark. The diverse cast of stars attending—from Hollywood veterans to rising international talents—reflects the festival’s wide appeal and its role in shaping film trends and conversations worldwide.
