Saoirse Ronan discusses protecting young Hollywood talent and advocates for U S voter engagement

Saoirse Ronan is sharing her thoughts on her time in Hollywood and her commitment to helping young performers.

Saoirse Ronan, an actress who has received four Oscar nominations for her performances in “Lady Bird” and “Little Women,” is leveraging her influence to support emerging artists in Hollywood and promote the importance of civic participation.

During a recent chat on the Variety Awards Circuit Podcast, Ronan discussed the difficulties young actors encounter in the film industry and emphasized how crucial it is to engage politically in the upcoming U.S. election.

Ronan, who was born in the Bronx and grew up in Ireland, has received international recognition for her acting skills. Recently, she appeared in the movies Blitz and The Outrun. Despite dividing her time between the U.S. and Ireland, she continues to be actively engaged in American elections.

Ronan, who is married to actor Jack Lowden—recently nominated for his first Emmy for "Slow Horses"—is dedicated to advocating for change both in her personal life and in her career. Her passion for improving Hollywood goes beyond her own achievements; she is particularly focused on ensuring that the entertainment industry becomes a safer space for new talent.

Looking back on her initial experience in the industry, which started when she was just 13 in Joe Wright's Atonement, Ronan attributes much of her success to her mother. She appreciates how her mom helped her navigate the tough aspects of the industry and kept her away from harmful situations. "I was fortunate to have my mom by my side," Ronan noted, emphasizing her mother's relentless commitment to her safety in the face of industry pressures. "Some directors can be very controlling, especially with young performers,” she added. “Children often want to make others happy and may find it hard to say no.”

At the age of 30, Ronan feels a deep sense of duty to assist young actors in carving their own journeys. She is open to providing her personal support to emerging talents, urging them to contact her whenever they seek advice. "It can be an isolating experience, and growing up in this industry isn't natural," she explained. "I just want young individuals to understand that they can always reach out for help."

Ronan’s commitment goes well beyond her film career; she actively encourages people to participate in politics and is particularly passionate about getting Americans to vote in the upcoming 2024 election. Alarmed by recent setbacks like the restrictions on reproductive rights and the increase in hate crimes, she believes that engaging voters is essential for influencing what lies ahead. “The United States plays a significant role in how the world functions,” Ronan remarked. “If things go south there, it will impact many of us.”

Ronan is deeply affected by issues of violence and intolerance, which have touched the lives of those around her and shaken her own sense of security. “I know people who feel unsafe,” she expressed, emphasizing her wish for a community where everyone can feel protected. She calls on voters in the U.S. to be active participants, stressing the importance of making a decision: “Don’t stay neutral. The undecided voters will tip the balance of this election.”

Ronan's latest films, "The Outrun" and "Blitz," are creating a lot of excitement for the Oscars. Both are currently showing in theaters and can also be streamed online. "Blitz" will be available on Apple TV+ starting November 22.