Daniel Day-Lewis insists he ‘never meant to retire’ and felt ‘residual sadness’ as his son made films while he ‘walked away’ ahead of the release of his first project in 8 years

by

Daniel Day-Lewis clarified that he never intended to retire, before the premiere of his movie, which marks a return after an eight-year hiatus.

During a recent interview on Thursday, the 68-year-old actor shared his lingering sense of sorrow, as his son, Ronan (age 27), embarked upon his filmmaking career, while he chose to step back.

In 2017, Daniel’s decision to retire at age 60 sent a ripple effect throughout Hollywood.

In my expert opinion, as I delve back into the world of filmmaking with Anemone, my first directorial venture, I must confess that my initial intention was to explore different creative avenues.

As a die-hard fan, speaking candidly, I can’t help but feel like Daniel was talking over my head when he mentioned retirement in his Rolling Stone interview. To be honest, the idea of him retiring has never crossed my mind, and it still doesn’t now.

‘I just stopped doing that particular type of work so I could do some other work.’ 

The acclaimed actor, known for roles in films like Gangs of New York, There Will Be Blood, and The Last of the Mohicans, chose not to disclose the reasons behind his departure at that moment. His representatives explained it as a personal choice.

According to Daniel Day- Lewis’s representative, the renowned actor has chosen to retire from acting. This personal decision was made without providing any additional comments about it from either him or his team.

The psychological drama titled “Anemone” is scheduled to be released on October 3, with Daniel taking the main role, supported by Sean Bean and Samantha Morton.

During his discussion about the project, the actor expressed his delight at potentially collaborating with his son.

Speaking of it now, I harbored a lingering melancholy, knowing that Ronan would venture into filmmaking, while I was stepping back from that path.

Together, the father and his son penned a screenplay that delves into the intricacies of familial bonds, particularly focusing on connections between fathers, sons, and brothers.

Filming started back in October in Manchester, yet specifics about the character played by Daniel remain undisclosed; however, there are whispers that his role may be that of a former soldier.

In the year 2017, Daniel achieved significant acclaim with an Oscar-worthy portrayal in Paul Thomas Anderson’s movie Phantom Thread. However, following this successful role, he decided to step away entirely from acting.

A statement released to Variety by his spokeswoman confirmed the shock news.

Leslee Dart stated that Daniel Day-Lewis has decided to retire from acting. He expressed deep gratitude towards everyone he worked with and the audience who supported him throughout his career.

‘On this matter, he has decided to keep things private, and henceforth, there won’t be any additional comments from him or his team.’

In a subsequent interview with W magazine, he admitted to experiencing deep sorrow about the choice, yet emphasized that he was driven by an overpowering sense of necessity to make it.

He mentioned that the urge to stop became deeply ingrained within him, and it turned into an irresistible drive. Essentially, he felt it was something he couldn’t help but pursue,” (he) said.

He went on: ‘Do I feel better? Not yet. I have great sadness. And that’s the right way to feel.’

Read More

2025-09-12 03:54