Austin Butler is taking significant steps in his personal and professional life, revealing insights into his Austin Butler personal growth journey in a new feature for Vanity Fair’s Hollywood issue. The actor, recognized for his performances in “Elvis” and “Dune: Part Two,” explained how shifting perspectives are guiding his choices, revealing a move away from past pressures toward a more balanced and grounded approach to life and his art.
At 34, Butler shared his desire to become a better friend and partner, and, with hope for the future, a good husband and father. While he is not a parent yet, he cherishes his relationship as a “fun uncle” to Ashley Tisdale’s four-year-old daughter, Jupiter. Citing his close bond with Tisdale and her family, he has spoken fondly of supporting them, even FaceTiming Jupiter shortly after her birth. Ashley Tisdale has publicly recognized Butler’s support during her pregnancy, reinforcing the meaningful connection they share.
Shaping a Healthier Approach to His Life and Career
During his Vanity Fair interview, Butler described how significant life events, particularly the loss of his mother to cancer in 2014, influenced his emotional development and his approach as an artist. Previously, he admitted to suppressing difficult emotions, but learning to experience those feelings has enriched not only his performances but also his real-life interactions. Butler prefers a lifestyle that distances him from constant digital distractions, identifying as an “analog guy” who appreciates the mystique that old Hollywood maintained between celebrities and audiences.
While reflecting on his professional journey, Butler highlighted milestone moments, such as his early days with the Disney Channel, his pivotal role in Quentin Tarantino’s
“Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood,”
and his collaboration with Denzel Washington in the Broadway production of “The Iceman Cometh.” According to Butler, each role begins as “a blurry picture” that gains clarity as he invests more time and attention, revealing an intentional, patient process. He openly shared that, although complex and darker characters draw his interest, he looks forward to roles centered on emotional depth and intimacy, akin to the storytelling of “Blue Valentine.”
Protecting mental well-being is another key priority for Butler. Speaking at the New York City premiere of “Caught Stealing,” the actor expressed plans to step away from technology following his press commitments, stating,
“very, very good for the brain.”
– Butler, Actor
Responding to Public Curiosity and Embracing Authenticity
Austin Butler also took time to address recent rumors linking him romantically with Emily Ratajkowski. After the two were seen dining together in New York City, speculation about their relationship surfaced; however, Butler clarified in the Vanity Fair interview:
“The true answer is that I have a lot of friends and we’re friends and we had dinner,”
– Butler, Actor. He acknowledged that, in the past, such public attention made him want to become more private, feeling inclined to retreat from scrutiny.
Despite the pressures of being in the public eye, Butler has resolved not to let fear dictate his actions any longer, remarking,
“I’m going to live a constricted small life because I’m afraid of what other people are going to say or what they’re going to think?”
– Butler, Actor. Instead, he is focused on crafting a fulfilling and authentic path, both personally and professionally. Looking toward the future, he reflected,
“You get one life, so how can I allow that to hopefully make me a better friend and a better partner — and a better husband, one day, and a better father, one day, God willing?”
– Butler, Actor.
Butler’s ongoing journey is shaped by his desire for meaningful growth, close relationships, and impactful roles. His willingness to discuss these themes openly highlights a shift not only in his career but in how he hopes to positively influence those around him and embrace the opportunities ahead.
