Alexander Skarsgård Opens Up About Resisting His Acting Destiny
Alexander Skarsgård reveals why he initially turned away from acting, the pressures of growing up in a famous family, and how he eventually found his own path in Hollywood. He also shares heartfelt moments supporting his father Stellan’s recent success.
Alexander Skarsgård’s journey to the big screen was anything but straightforward. Despite being the son of acclaimed actor Stellan Skarsgård, whose career has spanned decades and includes roles in films like Deep Blue Sea, Good Will Hunting, Dune, and The Avengers, Alexander didn’t always see himself following in those footsteps.
During a recent appearance on a popular podcast, Alexander—whose siblings Bill, Valter, and Gustaf are also actors —reflected on his early reluctance to join the family business.
“I didn’t want to be an actor when I was a kid. I tried very hard to avoid it — and in some ways, I still do. I was a contrarian. I think because people assumed I’d want to follow my father into acting, I instinctively pushed against it. I did a few things as a child actor almost by accident. A friend of my dad’s — a Swedish director — needed a seven-year-old boy, and I happened to be seven. I worked a bit in Sweden between the ages of seven and 13, but never with the intention of it becoming a career. It felt like a novelty. Craft service had Cinnabons — that was exciting.”
Turning Away From the Spotlight
By the time he was 13, Alexander had already experienced the downside of early fame. After starring in a made-for-TV movie in Sweden, he found himself recognized everywhere he went.
“I quit when I was 13 after doing a made-for-television movie in Sweden. At the time there were only two TV channels, so a huge portion of the population watched whatever was on. I started being recognized in public, and at 13 — already an incredibly awkward age — that was overwhelming. Being in the spotlight on top of that wasn’t healthy for me. I hated it. So I stopped acting for eight years and was determined to do something else. I failed miserably. And here we are.”
For nearly a decade, he tried to carve out a different path, but nothing seemed to stick. Eventually, he found his way back to acting, building a career that now includes standout roles in The Northman, Infinity Pool, Succession, and Big Little Lies.
Family Pride and New Successes
Alexander also spoke about the recent achievements of his father, Stellan, who’s been enjoying a wave of recognition for his work in Sentimental Value. The two have even found themselves attending the same film festivals and celebrating together.
“We were joking the other day about orchestrating a massive smear campaign against him — no, but truly, it’s been such a joy. We’ve been going to the same festivals, hanging out, partying together. I get to see him in this moment where he’s just glowing. He’s so proud of the film and so happy [...]. Being around him as he travels, receives praise, and truly enjoys it has been incredibly moving. It’s been really, really beautiful.”
Living With Expectations
Despite his own success, Alexander admits that doubts still linger. In a previous interview, he shared how he continues to wrestle with feelings of insecurity and the shadow of his father’s legacy.
“I would say I struggle daily with insecurities and desperately trying to find a reason why I don’t deserve a job. And then to go to it’s because my dad’s an actor. It’s very convenient.”
Even after more than twenty years in the industry, Alexander still thanks his father for every opportunity, acknowledging the unique challenges and rewards of growing up in a family where acting is more than just a profession—it’s a way of life.