Brad Pitt Reflects on the Two Women Who Left Him Truly Starstruck

2 July 2025

Brad Pitt at the New York City premiere of 'F1' on June 16. 2025. Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty

During a recent conversation on the New Heights podcast with hosts Jason and Travis Kelce, Brad Pitt opened up about the rare moments in his distinguished career when he felt genuine awe. Reflecting on his early days in Hollywood, Pitt shared that only two of his legendary Thelma & Louise co-stars, Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon, left a lasting impression on him moments that transcended professional admiration and left him unexpectedly starstruck. Pitt fondly recalled the experience, underscoring just how much those first encounters shaped his understanding of talent and presence.

The actor took a seat in the spotlight of the podcast to revisit the atmosphere on the set of the 1991 classic, where he portrayed the charming drifter J.D., smitten with Davis’s Thelma. At the time, Pitt was a relative newcomer learning the ropes, and meeting Davis was a profound moment. He spoke of her kindness and grace, especially amidst the emotional intimacy required for their scenes together. That graciousness, he said, immediately dispelled any nerves he felt, and his starstruck moment evolved into genuine admiration.

It was Davis’s presence and generosity on screen that struck a chord in Pitt, but he also shared his admiration for Susan Sarandon. He praised her professionalism and depth, noting how she brought nuance and authenticity to her role. Pitt admitted he needed to divorce himself of that initial starstruck response quickly but the impact of both women’s talent and their welcoming spirit stayed with him throughout his career. Their influence taught him that great actors do not overshadow others; instead, they elevate their peers through collaboration and mutual respect.

Sarandon’s acknowledgment of Pitt came years later when she praised his performance, noting that he embodied humor, intelligence, and an emotional range that defied the expectations reserved for new leading men. She said that he was much more than a handsome face a rare and welcome discovery that confirmed his early promise. Both Sarandon and Davis recognized in Pitt someone whose talent would not only endure but evolve, reinforcing his confidence as he pursued a career that would eventually include two Oscars and a place among Hollywood’s elite.

Thelma & Louise offered more than just a launchpad for Pitt; it was a film that redefined female empowerment in early ’90s cinema. Not only did it mark a turning point for Pitt, it also became a career-defining moment for its co-stars. Davis later noted that the film transformed her trajectory, deepening her ties with audiences who embraced the film’s feminist core. Sarandon echoed this sentiment, describing how the film sparked discussions that resonated with viewers and influenced societal conversations long after its release.

Pitt’s reflections are notable for how they highlight his admiration for these accomplished women, but also for the humility with which he spoke. In sharing those early feelings of starstruck respect, Pitt reminds audiences that actors themselves can be shaped by those they collaborate with. These revelations also underscore how powerful early professional relationships can be, shaping careers and forging mutual admiration that stands the test of time.

Today, Pitt remains one of Hollywood’s most enduring icons, known as much for his cinematic achievements as for his presence beyond the screen. From breakout performances to producing Oscar-winning films with Plan B Entertainment, Pitt’s career has been marked by dedication, versatility and a willingness to grow. That spirit, he demonstrated on the podcast, remains informed by moments when he paused and honored the brilliance of others moments like those initial meetings with Davis and Sarandon that remain etched in his memory.

In embracing the vulnerability of being starstruck, even briefly, Pitt invites a deeper connection between audiences and artists. His gratitude toward Davis and Sarandon is less a nostalgic recollection than a testament to the power of recognition and respect. It celebrates how formative experiences on set can resonate throughout a lifetime, forging qualities of humility, appreciation and continuous learning.

As he navigates his current life working on high-profile projects, balancing family commitments, and maintaining artistic presence Pitt’s acknowledgment of his own starstruck moments stands as a reminder of the humanity that underlies the machinery of fame. His experience invites reflection on how even those at the top remain students at heart, shaped by the grace, talent and professionalism of their collaborators.

Ultimately, Brad Pitt’s reflections are more than celebrity anecdotes. They are an invitation to recognize the human moments that shape creative paths, a reminder that reverence can spark inspiration, and tributes to those who, knowingly or not, become catalysts in another’s journey. It is a portrait of gratitude, art’s interwoven paths, and the enduring respect that binds creative souls across generations.