Jeff Bridges, renowned for his role in The Big Lebowski, has made a notable return to the big screen with the release of Tron: Ares, marking his first film appearance since 2018’s Bad Times at the El Royale. This new project sees Bridges reprise his role as Kevin Flynn, a character he originally portrayed in the 1982 classic Tron and its 2010 sequel Tron: Legacy. His return is particularly significant after overcoming a battle with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2020 alongside a severe case of COVID-19 shortly thereafter.
Beyond his cinematic comeback, Bridges has also appeared in a recent advertising campaign for T-Mobile, where he shares the screen with Zoe Saldaña and her husband Marco Perego. The ads humorously explore his efforts to audition for a T-Mobile commercial, blending the actor’s seasoned presence with lighthearted moments.
Behind the Scenes of Bridges’ T-Mobile Commercial Experience
During a conversation with Entertainment Weekly, Bridges shed light on how the T-Mobile commercial came about. He credits his commercial agent and a connection through his manager to director Brian Klugman for the opportunity. Reflecting on the audition process, Bridges reveals a fondness for auditions, recalling the one he did for John Carpenter’s film Starman. He explained that to him, auditions represented a performance in themselves, with getting the part being a rewarding bonus.
Working alongside Zoe Saldaña and her husband Marco on the advertisement was a positive experience. Bridges described both as wonderful, easygoing collaborators, and the group shared an enjoyable time together.
Recovering and Returning to Acting: A Personal Turn
Bridges openly discussed the health issues that sidetracked his career, stating that the illnesses forced an unplanned break from film roles. Reflecting on this period, he said,
“I got sick, and I was down for about — oh gosh, I don’t know, it felt like forever.”
Despite uncertainty around whether he would return to acting, he credits his rebound to the support of his cast and crew on FX’s The Old Man. This project, which spanned two seasons over roughly five years, symbolized his gradual reentry into the industry.
When asked about how his outlook on life shifted after these experiences, Bridges shared a renewed appreciation for simply being alive. He said,
“Oh, I’m getting a second crack at this. Why not just relax and have some fun?”
A lesson imparted by his mother also stuck with him:
“Remember, have fun and don’t take it too seriously.”
These words continue to shape his approach to both life and work.
Current and Future Film Projects on Bridges’ Horizon
Looking ahead, Bridges spoke about upcoming roles, including a part in Grendel, inspired by the villain from the ancient tale Beowulf, and a potential collaboration with director Terry Gilliam in a project where he plays God. Although some aspects remain uncertain, with financing and schedules still in flux, Bridges expressed enthusiasm for these projects, especially working with Gilliam again.
Despite his openness to continuing acting, Bridges emphasized a laid-back attitude toward career choices.
“I’m just kind of playing it as it lays,”
he explained, noting his general tendency to resist work in favor of other interests, but allowing himself to be drawn back when the right opportunity arises.
Perspectives on the Box Office and the Reception of Tron: Ares
Industry discussions around Tron: Ares have largely focused on its opening weekend, with some labeling the box office turnout as disappointing. Bridges offered a measured view on this phenomenon, acknowledging the intense spotlight Hollywood places on initial earnings. He recalled how his own 1980 film Heaven’s Gate was initially considered a flop, yet decades later it has been reappraised as a masterpiece. Reflecting on this shift, Bridges described a special screening of Heaven’s Gate’s director’s cut in Santa Barbara, where his wife’s photographs from the set are being exhibited.
He elaborated on how personal impressions of movies can change over time:
“Even as an individual, often, I have not liked a movie. And then a couple weeks or months later, I’ll see it again. I’ll say, What was I thinking?”
He also referenced his famous character from The Big Lebowski, quoting,
“That’s just like your opinion, man.”
Revisiting The Big Lebowski and Its Lasting Influence
Bridges recently reprised his iconic role as the Dude during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, commenting on the character’s enduring appeal. He mentioned enjoying opportunities to revisit the role and connecting it to a recent project where he showcased personal photographs taken during the original Big Lebowski filming. Working alongside his long-time stand-in Loyd Catlett, they presented the film with accompanying images to an enthusiastic audience.
Bridges expressed pride in being part of The Coen Brothers’ celebrated film, calling it a wonderful experience that he never tires of discussing.
Commenting on the costume design, Bridges said the robe worn by the Dude in the movie wasn’t actually his, but he did acquire some items from the wardrobe such as the original sweater and jelly shoes, which he treasured.
Recognition from Leonardo DiCaprio and Parallels with New Characters
Leonardo DiCaprio revealed that his portrayal of a stoner character in the film One Battle After Another took inspiration from Bridges’ performance as the Dude. Bridges reacted warmly to this news, calling it “a wonderful thing to hear.” Although he had not come across DiCaprio’s interviews, Bridges enjoyed the film itself immensely and praised the strong performances, especially DiCaprio’s.
He noted similarities between the two characters, reflecting that while they might appear lazy on the surface, there is a deeper spirit to them. He said,
“Both of those guys, you look at ’em with a certain lens, and they look like lazy sons of bitches. They don’t really have anything to really give to the world or anything. But on closer examination, you see they’re kind of deeper than that, or their spirits run deeper than that.”
Ongoing Relationships with the Coen Brothers and Taylor Sheridan
Bridges praised the Coen Brothers as masters of their craft and fondly recalled working with them on films like True Grit. Although his interactions with them are infrequent, he enjoys each encounter and admires their effortless-seeming filmmaking, which belies the intensive writing behind their projects.
On another note, Bridges reflected on his collaboration with Taylor Swift during the making of The Giver and fondly called her “one of my movie daughters,” alongside others like Drew Barrymore. He enjoys following the careers of these young actors as one would their own children.
Regarding Taylor Sheridan, writer of Hell or High Water, Bridges praised him as a prolific talent. While no current plans exist for future collaborations, Bridges spoke fondly of his time on Hell or High Water, directed by David Mackenzie, describing it as a great experience.
Current Availability and Additional Appearances
Jeff Bridges can be seen now in theaters as part of the Tron: Ares cast. Fans may also catch him in T-Mobile’s promotional campaign featuring Zoe Saldaña, which highlights the company’s iPhone 17 Pro deal. The commercial offers a quirky glimpse into Bridges’ character auditions while promoting phone trade-in offers.
With his health greatly improved and a renewed outlook on his craft, Bridges appears poised to balance his passion for acting alongside personal pursuits. His reflections on legacy, resilience, and the unpredictable nature of the film industry offer insight into a career marked by creative highs and personal challenges alike.
