Sydney Sweeney tells Ethan Hawke “I wish you were my dad” during an intimate conversation about Euphoria, acting as teens, and finding grounding mentors in Hollywood.

A Candid, Emotional Exchange

December 11, 2025: Sydney Sweeney opened up in a surprisingly heartfelt moment during a conversation with Ethan Hawke, telling the acclaimed actor, “I wish you were my dad.” The two were discussing their acting journeys, the pressures of fame, and what it means to navigate Hollywood at different stages of life.

The remark, said with warmth and admiration, immediately caught attention for its intimacy and sincerity.

Why Sweeney Felt Such a Connection

Sweeney explained that Hawke’s approach to acting—and life—reminds her of the kind of guidance young performers rarely receive. She praised his honesty, emotional intelligence, and willingness to talk openly about vulnerability, saying she felt genuinely safe and seen during their conversation.

Her comment wasn’t about her real family, but about wishing she had a mentor with Hawke’s wisdom while growing up in the industry.

HOLR has the latest news on how intergenerational friendships in Hollywood are reshaping conversations around mentorship.

Reflecting on Euphoria and Playing Teen Roles

The two actors also shared insights about portraying teenagers under intense public scrutiny. Sweeney discussed the emotional strain of Euphoria, admitting that playing such raw, psychologically heavy material required support systems she didn’t always have early on.

Hawke compared her experience with his own teenage acting years, noting that young performers often carry adult expectations long before they have the tools to manage them.

Hawke’s Guidance Resonates

Hawke responded to Sweeney’s comment with humility, telling her he admired her strength and range as an actor. He emphasized that mentorship in Hollywood should be more intentional, especially for rising stars under immense pressure.

Their exchange reflected real mutual respect, blurring the line between professional conversation and personal connection.

Fans React to the Heartfelt Moment

Social media quickly picked up the clip, with fans praising Sweeney’s honesty and Hawke’s warmth. Many said the moment highlighted how isolating fame can feel for young performers—and how meaningful it is when seasoned actors show genuine care.

HOLR notes that public interest in mentor-mentee relationships among stars continues to grow as Hollywood culture shifts.

A Conversation About More Than Acting

Beyond discussing Euphoria, the pair dove into themes of identity, emotional resilience, and navigating the spotlight. Sweeney shared that hearing Hawke’s stories made her feel less alone in the challenges she’s faced, especially those that come with intense early success.

Their dialogue became a reminder that even established stars benefit from empathy and understanding.

A Viral Moment With Real Heart

Though the quote sparked headlines, the full conversation revealed far more than a single emotional remark. It showcased two artists—one rising, one seasoned—finding common ground in their vulnerabilities and experiences.

Looking Ahead

Sweeney’s admiration for Hawke underscores a growing industry push toward more supportive environments for young actors. Their candid moment has already sparked discussions about the need for mentorship structures in Hollywood.