Jennifer Lawrence Says There’s One Type of Actor She Avoids Working With
When it comes to the diverse world of acting techniques, even an Academy Award winner like Jennifer Lawrence admits to having a few phobias. While appearing on a recent episode of the popular series Hot Ones, the No Hard Feelings star shared her genuine apprehension regarding a specific type of preparation that has become a staple of Hollywood drama.
When the conversation turned to the potential friction of working with actors who utilize different methods of preparation, Lawrence was quick to point out the one style that makes her the most uneasy. I would be nervous to work with someone who’s Method [acting], Lawrence admitted during the interview.
She elaborated on the social anxiety such a situation would cause, noting that she would have no idea how to interact with a colleague who refuses to break character. Because I would have no idea how to talk to them, ’cause like, do I have to be in character? That would just make me nervous, she explained.
Method acting remains one of the most polarizing topics in the film industry, often pitting immersive performers against those who prefer a more traditional approach.
Actors like Andrew Garfield and Jeremy Strong are well-known for their deep dives into their roles, while others, such as Strong’s Succession co-star Brian Cox, have been famously critical of the practice.
Lawrence also took a moment to reflect on how her own process has evolved over the years, particularly after observing a legendary co-star. She revealed that she used to be an on/off on/off type of performer until she worked alongside Christian Bale on the set of American Hustle. I noticed when the camera started rolling, and the crew started preparing, and it would be about 10 seconds to action, he would start getting ready, she recalled.
Seeing Bale’s brief but intense pre-shot ritual was a turning point for her, leading her to adopt a similar strategy for her own work. I saw that and was like, ‘That seems like a really good idea.’ So then I started to do that, she said. The interview also touched on the unusual skills Lawrence has picked up for her various roles, ranging from the practical to the bizarre.
She joked about learning how to pick locks for the spy thriller Red Sparrow, noting that while she hasn’t used the skill yet, to know that I could is cool. Additionally, she mentioned the unique experience of learning how to properly handle a falcon for her role in the period drama Serena.
Currently, Lawrence is enjoying a massive wave of critical acclaim for her performance in the 2025 psychological drama Die My Love, which earned her a Golden Globe nomination. The film, which features her alongside Robert Pattinson, has been hailed as her most transformative work since Mother! and is currently streaming on Mubi.
Looking ahead, Lawrence has a packed schedule for 2026, including a highly anticipated collaboration with director Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio titled What Happens at Night. She is also rumored to be reprising her iconic role as Katniss Everdeen in a sequence for the upcoming prequel The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, scheduled for late 2026.
Beyond acting, she is continuing her work as a producer through her company Excellent Cadaver and is reportedly developing a new comedy script with Kim Caramele.
Do you think Method acting is an essential tool for great performances, or do you agree with Jennifer Lawrence that it just makes things awkward on set? Share your thoughts in the comments!