Actress Maya Hawke claims that the size of actors’ social media followings is becoming a crucial factor in casting decisions and whether projects can be greenlit. Hawke, daughter of Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman, spoke about the blurred lines between being an actor and a celebrity in a recent podcast appearance.
Hawke notes that the industry has shifted to prioritize personalities over acting abilities, with some producers demanding high follower counts for cast members. She recalls instances where directors warned her that deleting her Instagram account could impact casting decisions, forcing her to weigh the benefits of maintaining her online presence against her artistic goals.
However, Hawke highlights the existence of a few influential and respected directors who operate outside this system, allowing them to focus on their work without the burden of social media. She has been fortunate enough to collaborate with such directors, including Quentin Tarantino, Bradley Cooper, and Wes Anderson.
With 8.9 million followers on Instagram, Hawke’s own social media presence is a double-edged sword. While it provides opportunities for fame and collaboration, she believes that the industry’s emphasis on online persona can stifle an actor’s ability to focus on their craft.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/maya-hawke-claims-some-producers-cast-actors-based-numbers-instagram-followers