Ethan Hawke is baring his soul about one of the most trying periods of his life: his divorce from Uma Thurman. In a revealing profile for GQ UK, the actor reminisces about the intense media scrutiny that enveloped their separation in 2004, confessing that even commendations felt excruciatingly difficult to endure at that time. "It borders on humiliating, even when they're singing praises," he confides.
Hawke and Thurman first crossed paths on the set of the 1997 film "Gattaca." Elucidating the unique bond actors often forge when working in close proximity, Hawke elucidates, "There's an intimate essence to our craft. A kind of imaginative intimacy." He likens this sensation to a high-stakes game, stating, "It's exhilarating, akin to a rush. It feels perilous and thrilling." For him, the emotions stirred on set could resemble "falling in love at summer camp," yet he concedes that this spark doesn't always translate into real-life compatibility. "It bears no resemblance to the mundane aspects of everyday life. That's the peril of it," he admits.
Just a year after their initial encounter, Hawke and Thurman tied the knot and welcomed two children together: Maya, now 27, renowned for her role in "Stranger Things," and Levon, 23. However, by 2005, their marriage had come to an end. Thurman initiated divorce proceedings amidst rumors that Hawke was involved with their family nanny, Ryan Shawhughes. Though he refuted these whispers, Hawke embarked on a relationship with Shawhughes following their separation. The couple wed in 2008 and now share daughters Clementine, 17, and Indiana, 14.
For her part, Thurman refrained from speaking ill of Hawke post-split. In a 2006 interview with Parade, she remarked, "I cannot indulge in any criticism of my children's father. I must uphold peace. It's fair to say I haven't uttered a harsh word, and I won't commence now. It's detrimental to my family." Thurman subsequently found love with financier Arpad Busson, with whom she shares daughter Luna, now 11. Their relationship experienced numerous ups and downs before coming to a close in 2014. More recently, Thurman has been rumored to be involved with Bloomberg executive Justin B. Smith and architect Peter Sabbeth.
Hawke's candid reflections underscore the intricate tapestry of love, fame, and family, particularly when lived under the scrutinizing gaze of the public eye.
