Hailee Steinfeld, an exceptional talent, soared to stardom when she secured an Oscar-nominated role in the acclaimed film True Grit. At a tender age of 13, she embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that led her to the grand stage of the Academy Awards. The Coen brothers’ masterpiece propelled her career, earning her a best-supporting-actress nomination at just 14 years old.
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Embracing a Rare Experience at a Young Age
Steinfeld, now 26, reflects on the invaluable advice she received during that pivotal moment. As she reveals in her exclusive digital cover story with People, she vividly recalls being urged to take it all in and cherish the unique journey she was about to embark on. Although her youthful self wholeheartedly embraced the experience, she now comprehends the true significance of those words. Every aspect of her journey was exceptional: the timing, the places she visited, and the remarkable individuals she had the privilege to work with. Surrounded by seasoned professionals who offered unwavering support, Steinfeld experienced a multitude of firsts, maintaining an insatiable curiosity and contagious excitement.
Jeff Bridges: A Profound Influence on and off the Set
Among the many influential figures in Steinfeld’s career, her True Grit co-star, Jeff Bridges, stands out. Professionally and personally, Bridges left an indelible mark on the young actress. Steinfeld fondly remembers Bridges’ infectious joy and enthusiasm on set, even in the midst of challenging scenes. Despite the serious nature of their roles, Bridges effortlessly maintained an energy that put her at ease. During breaks, he introduced a delightful game called Pass the Pigs, which quickly became a favorite among the Steinfeld family.
Balancing Stardom and Teenage Milestones
While Steinfeld’s extraordinary journey may have limited some of her traditional teenage experiences, she managed to incorporate them into her career. Filming the homecoming scene in 2015’s Barely Lethal and joining the sorority in the Pitch Perfect franchise provided her with glimpses of typical teenage milestones. Moreover, her role in The Edge of Seventeen in 2016 allowed Steinfeld to release some hidden teenage angst, providing her with a cathartic experience she didn’t know she needed.
Personal Connections and Gratitude
In recent months, Steinfeld has witnessed the personal battles faced by both Bridges and her Hawkeye co-star, Jeremy Renner. Bridges, who successfully battled non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and Renner, who survived a near-fatal snowplow accident, deeply touched her heart. Steinfeld shares her gratitude for having a personal connection with these remarkable individuals and expresses her overwhelming appreciation for their resilience.
As Hailee Steinfeld continues to grace the screen with her talent, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and individuals alike. From her extraordinary early achievements to the profound influence of her co-stars, Steinfeld’s story exemplifies the power of seizing once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. Her unwavering dedication and ability to embrace unique experiences have propelled her to the forefront of the entertainment industry. With each new project, Steinfeld proves that her star power is matched only by her genuine gratitude for the remarkable people who have shaped her remarkable journey.