Ethan Hawke has been in the movie industry since a young age and is now one of the most established actors and filmmakers in Hollywood.
Having risen to prominence in the late ’80s by portraying Todd Anderson in the 1989 film “Dead Poets Society,” in which he starred with Robin Williams and Robert Sean Leonard, he has since been nominated for some of the most prestigious awards available to performers. This includes several Academy Awards, a Tony Award, and two Golden Globes.
However, Hawke made his acting debut in the 1985 movie “Explorers.” Alongside River Phoenix, the pair played two friends who build a spacecraft so they can explore space, with Jason Presson and the late Amanda Peterson also appearing as part of the main cast.
Thanks to a little-known photograph taken on the set of the film, you can get a glimpse of Hawke at the age of 14 before he was famous.
Ethan Hawke on the Set of ‘Explorers’ As a 14-Year-Old
While many people will likely remember Hawke from films such as “Training Day” and “Boyhood” or the television series “The Good Lord Bird,” he actually got his start in the cult favourite “Explorers.” The 1985 release is notable for providing both Hawke and Phoenix with their screen debuts.
The behind-the-scenes image, which was shared on Instagram, shows Hawke talking to Peterson while wearing a checked shirt and a light jacket. According to a post from a trusted fan account, the two young actors competed for the affections of Peterson, who seemingly favoured Hawke over Phoenix.
“There was a bit of a rivalry between Ethan and River over Amanda Peterson,” Joe Dante explained. “They were always sort of vying for her affection, and I think Ethan won.”
Ethan Hawke Makes Honest Admission About Divorce from Uma Thurman
GettyIn September 2025, Hawke opened up about how his separation from his ex-wife Uma Thurman was tough to get over. Hawke’s candid confession focused on how difficult the breakup was, given the media attention it drew.
“It’s humiliating. It’s almost humiliating even when they’re saying positive things,” Hawke revealed.
The pair met on the set of the 1997 sci-fi drama “Gattaca” but officially ended their relationship in 2004.
They share two children, including 27-year-old “Stranger Things” actress Maya Hawke and “The Crowded Room” actor Levon Hawke.
