Ethan Hawke knows that his unexpected appearance in a certain music video might define a notable part of his career. During a recent appearance on Sirius XM’s “The Jess Cagle Show with Julia Cunningham,” the 53-year-old star of “Before Sunrise” discussed his experience starring in Taylor Swift’s music video for “Fortnight.” Hawke’s cameo alongside his “Dead Poets Society” co-star Josh Charles has generated significant buzz.
By Sadie Watkins
A Surprising Cameo
In the show, Hawke revealed that his appearance alongside Josh Charles was a homage to “Dead Poets Society.” He said, “I think she wanted to create some kind of psychic connection for the fans and asked a few of us old dogs to make our presence known.” This symbolic nod to the “Tortured Poets Department” and the beloved film is a delightful Easter egg for fans.
An Unexpected Legacy
Host Julia Cunningham noted that Hawke’s cameo in the music video has become a career highlight. Hawke joked, “I have a feeling this will be in my obituary. I might get a few other mentions.” He humorously imagined his obituary stating he was known as “the doctor in the background of the ‘Fortnight’ video,” acknowledging the impact of this unexpected role.
Secrecy and Surprise
In an appearance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” Hawke explained that he and Charles had to keep their cameo a secret before the video’s release. “I can’t imagine what it’s like to walk through an airport with a friend you’ve known for 35 years and see all the young people in their ‘Eras’ sweatshirts, unaware of our secret,” he shared. Hawke even had to sign a non-disclosure agreement, preventing him from telling his teenage daughters about his involvement with the pop icon.
Family Reactions
Hawke recounted that his daughters were disappointed when they found out about his secret project with Taylor Swift. “Taylor belongs to them,” he defended, “I can’t take that away from them, so I had to keep it low-key.” The fact that he participated in a project with their idol elicited mixed feelings from his daughters, who see Swift as their own personal icon.
Ethan Hawke’s cameo in Taylor Swift’s “Fortnight” music video might indeed become an unforgettable part of his legacy. His humorous and reflective perspective on this unique moment shows that even seasoned actors can still experience surprises in their careers. This unexpected cameo has not only thrilled fans but also created a special connection between Hawke’s cinematic legacy and Swift’s musical universe.
Based on content from www.people.com