Jennifer Lawrence Reflects on Early Career Backlash, Calling Past Interviews “Embarrassing” and a “Defense Mechanism”
Jennifer Lawrence, the acclaimed star of “The Hunger Games” and numerous othre successful films, has recently opened up about the public’s shift in perception of her during the early stages of her career. In a new profile with The New Yorker, Lawrence candidly discussed how initial adoration for her seemingly authentic personality transformed into criticism, ultimately leading her to feel rejected not for her work, but for who she was as a person.
Lawrence explained that her energetic and often self-deprecating interview style, initially celebrated, was later perceived as inauthentic. She now recognizes this behavior as a “defense mechanism,” a way to deflect scrutiny and appear relatable. “So hyper. So embarrassing,” she admitted, acknowledging that the persona she presented was both genuine and a protective shield. “Well, it is indeed, or it was, my genuine personality, but it was also a defense mechanism. and so it was a defense mechanism, to just be, like, ‘I’m not like that! I poop my pants every day!'”
The actress further reflected that she understands why audiences found that version of herself irritating, even noting the accuracy of Ariana Grande’s satirical impression of her on Saturday Night Live in 2016. Grande’s sketch, which depicted a hyperactive and snack-obsessed Lawrence, resonated with the growing public sentiment at the time. Lawrence stated, “I felt – I didn’t feel, I was, I think – rejected not for my movies, not for my politics, but for me, for my personality.”
The intense period of fame and constant paparazzi attention also contributed to Lawrence’s state of mind. She described feeling perpetually “being chased” and experiencing sleepless nights fueled by adrenaline.
Despite reflecting on this challenging period,Lawrence is now focused on her upcoming projects.She will next appear in “die,My Love,” a thriller produced by martin Scorsese,set to release in theaters on November 7th.