Scarlett Johansson Shares How Robert Redford Inspired Her Acting Career as a Child Star
New York, NY — Nearly three decades after working with Hollywood legend Robert Redford, actress Scarlett Johansson is reflecting on the profound impact he had on her career — and how those early lessons helped inspire her own journey into directing.
A Life-Changing Experience on The Horse Whisperer
Back in 1998, Johansson was just 11 years old when she starred alongside Redford in The Horse Whisperer. The late actor not only directed the film but also played a pivotal role on screen, portraying a character who helps heal her traumatized young character.
Appearing on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on Sept. 22, Johansson, now 40, recalled how transformative the experience was for her:
“It was transformative for me. I had a complete understanding of, ‘Oh, this is actually a craft and something you get better at and understand more the more you put into it.’ That was all because of Bob. Mr. Redford — or Booey, as I called him.”
Lessons From Robert Redford
Johansson explained that her first spark of interest in directing came while watching Redford balance his responsibilities on set.
“I remember seeing him on the set. He would have those intimate conversations with me, and then he would be coordinating a huge scene… It was like, ‘That job seems pretty interesting. I’d like to do that job someday.’”
She recalled Redford as being endlessly patient and kind, taking time to walk her through the emotional layers of each scene.
“He was such a warm, generous, wonderful man, and he would take so much time with me every day. He really had this calm presence that made me feel safe and inspired.”
Paying Tribute After His Passing
When Redford passed away on Sept. 16, Johansson shared a heartfelt statement honoring his influence:
“Bob created an environment on set that was calm and precious; a place where actors could make discoveries. He was patient and warm and kind. Bob, thank you for your belief in me and for your grace and guidance. You inspired so many artists, me included, to go deeper, to stay present, to push creative boundaries, and to explore further. For that, we are forever grateful.”
Johansson’s Directorial Debut
Now, as Johansson steps behind the camera for the first time with her upcoming film Eleanor the Great, she carries Redford’s lessons with her. The movie, which premiered earlier this year at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, will officially debut in theaters on Friday, Sept. 26.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter ahead of its Cannes screening, Johansson admitted she felt both nervous and proud:
“Premiering in Cannes, I don’t know how I will be able to process the hugeness of it. It makes me nervous, but I’m excited as well. I’m very proud of it and proud of all the work everybody did to make it.”
A Lasting Legacy
From her early days as a child actress to her role as one of Hollywood’s most recognizable stars, Scarlett Johansson credits Robert Redford with shaping her understanding of acting as a craft — and giving her the confidence to one day step into the role of director herself.
His guidance, she says, remains at the core of her artistic journey:
“He inspired me to push further, to stay present, and to explore. I will always be grateful for that.”
