Tom Holland Reveals the Two Stars Who Shaped His Path
Tom Holland looks to Cillian Murphy and Daniel Craig as role models, admiring their ability to keep their personal lives private while excelling in their craft. Their example guides how he hopes to balance fame and his own future.
Since stepping into the shoes of Spider- Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Tom Holland has become one of Hollywood ’s most recognizable action heroes. With a fourth Spider-Man film in the works—and rumors swirling that it could be his last—Holland stands at a crossroads as he nears his thirties. The choices he makes now could set the tone for the next chapter of his career.
He’s already eyeing more ambitious projects, including a role in Christopher Nolan ’s highly anticipated adaptation of The Odyssey. There’s also plenty of buzz about him possibly taking on the mantle of James Bond. While nothing is set in stone, Holland’s own words about his inspirations offer a glimpse into the direction he hopes to take, both professionally and personally.
Seeking Inspiration Beyond the Spotlight
Holland has always been thoughtful about the impact of fame. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, he shared,
The types of people that I admire in my business are the types of people whose lives I would like to emulate.
He’s well aware of how being a leading man can affect every part of your life, and he’s determined to make choices that protect both his career and his privacy.
Despite his high-profile relationship with Zendaya, Holland has managed to keep much of his personal life out of the public eye. He’s made it clear that he wants to maintain that balance, drawing inspiration from actors who have done the same.
Cillian Murphy: Master of Craft and Privacy
One of Holland’s biggest influences is Cillian Murphy. He explained,
Someone like Cillian Murphy, arguably one of the best actors in the business. You never see him anywhere, you know?
Murphy has built a reputation as a powerhouse performer, starring in hits like Peaky Blinders, Oppenheimer, and Small Things Like These. Even with constant media attention, he manages to stay out of the gossip columns, focusing on his work and steering clear of the celebrity circus. His low-key approach and dedication to acting have made him a role model for those who want to succeed without sacrificing their private lives.
Daniel Craig: The Cool Factor
Holland also looks up to Daniel Craig, calling him
the man, he’s a hero. I think he’s one of the coolest people. You never see him anywhere, but he’s one of the biggest movie stars in the world.
Craig’s years as James Bond made him a household name, but he’s continued to challenge himself with diverse roles, like his recent turn as William Lee in Luca Guadagnino’s Queer. Despite his fame and his long-term relationship with Rachel Weisz, Craig has kept his personal life almost entirely out of the spotlight. Holland admires how both Craig and Murphy have managed to stay relevant and respected while living normal lives away from the glare of celebrity.
Charting His Own Course
For Holland, it’s not about chasing fame. He’s determined to follow in the footsteps of those who have found a way to do great work and still keep their lives private. In his own words, he wants to be among
people that are able to remain relevant [and] present, do good work, and at the same time somehow manage to live a regular life.
As he faces the next phase of his career, Holland is focused on making choices that let him grow as an actor while holding on to the things that matter most.