More than three decades after Thelma & Louise, Brad Pitt opens up about being awestruck by his breakout co-stars Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon.
July 2, 2025: Even Hollywood royalty has their starstruck moments—and for Brad Pitt, it happened during the early days of his career. On the July 2 episode of the New Heights podcast with Jason and Travis Kelce, the 61-year-old Oscar-winning actor revealed that the only two women to ever leave him in awe were his 1991 Thelma & Louise co-stars: Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon.
“When I first met Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon, I was [starstruck]. Yeah,” Pitt admitted, adding quickly, “I got over it quickly, though.”
A Scene—and Debut—to Remember
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Pitt’s role as J.D., the charming drifter who seduces Davis’ Thelma before robbing her, was a pivotal one that launched him into Hollywood stardom. The film’s intimate scenes with Davis were especially memorable for the actor.
In a 2023 interview with W Magazine, Pitt recalled how gracious Davis was during the shoot:
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“Geena was so sweet and kind and delicate. That love scene, I think, went on for two days of shooting. She took care of me.”
The Feeling Was Mutual
Both Davis and Sarandon have spoken glowingly about Pitt’s early talent. Sarandon noted in a 2021 interview with Extra that while Pitt’s looks were undeniable, it was his humor and depth that impressed her most:
“He really fleshed that part out in a way that wasn’t necessarily in the script… He continued to push the envelope in ways he didn’t have to.”
Meanwhile, Davis told PEOPLE in 2020 that Pitt “just has ‘it’,” and that his audition made it clear he was destined for greatness.
“He has done so many incredible things over the years… He really is the star of the moment.”
A Feminist Classic That Changed Lives
The legacy of Thelma & Louise goes far beyond introducing Brad Pitt. The film remains a cultural touchstone and a landmark of feminist cinema. Davis reflected on its impact during a 2024 panel:
“Thelma & Louise changed my life. After that movie came out, it was completely different… people wanted to talk to me about how it impacted them.”
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Brad Pitt, Geena Davis, Susan Sarandon, Thelma & Louise, Hollywood Starstruck, Celebrity Podcast, J.D. Thelma and Louise, Brad Pitt Breakout Role, Feminist Films, Oscar Winners