Formula 1 driving is difficult for Brad Pitt even though he’s recognized around the world as an actor. During an unguarded moment at a press tour for his new F1 film, Pitt equated his own celebrity life to the pressures of racing in Formula 1. Pitt considers that nothing a celebrity can experience is as tough as the intense scrutiny that F1 drivers receive each race weekend.
He pointed out how being isolated is part of the lives of both doctors and actors. Athletes feel alone when things don’t go as planned, are critical of their own actions and need to keep performing. But he added that the focus on every detail is significantly higher in F1. Many people criticize them. He said to GQ that it came as a shock to him. While actors deal with comments from reviewers and in the media, F1 drivers are constantly judged as they drive on the track, communicate with the team, are questioned by press and use social media. You pretty much have to put it all out there with your own real-life thoughts and actions.
It’s not only an abstract point I’m making. For example, Lando Norris has often been challenged for how he copes with stressful situations. People often note that Max Verstappen speaks very bluntly when he talks on the radio. Because his father is the owner of the team, Lance Stroll is frequently called a pay driver despite always performing well. Lewis Hamilton is one of the sport’s best drivers and people often watch what he does, both on the track and off it, including in matters of fashion and activism. Gold medalists get criticized and silver medalists get ignored.
In the F1 film, Pitt is Sonny Hayes, a driver who had great prospects but is now ignored. The film shows the tough emotions drivers experience, rather than glamorizing racing. Sonny is described in one memorable way: he’s not a has-been but a never-was. Many driving stars in elite motorsport certainly can relate to how valuable that sentiment can be. The way Pitt’s character is written—as a compulsive gambler living in a van—shows the challenging and fast-paced side of what racers face.
The director and his team teamed up with the people in the F1 paddock to make sure everything is accurate. Pitt said the whole grid was amazingly welcoming and Kosinski appreciated the drivers’ warm and open nature. When they realized how dedicated the team was, everyone agreed to work together fully. It seldom happens for such private groups to let someone film them, but the desire for a sincere representation convinced them.
Pitt genuinely admires Brad. Instead of worrying about acting in front of a camera, he believes that racing at top speed and being watched by millions is tougher. In both fields, attention is intense, but F1 drivers don’t get a second chance when mistakes happen. Things happen as a result and the standards are harsh.
At a time when the F1 film is approaching release, Pitt’s insights help bring together two tough industries. All of fame, isolation, criticism and chances for redemption play a role in the series. Errors can be costly on the track because there is hardly any room for them. Brad Pitt sees the drivers as the true heroes.
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