Jennifer Lawrence has never shied away from speaking honestly about some of the biggest moments in her life. While promoting Lila Neugebauer‘s 2022 drama ‘Causeway,’ the Oscar winner opened up about a fear that many expecting parents experience but rarely discuss so openly.
Long before welcoming her first child, Cy, in February 2022, the actress admitted she was overwhelmed by the idea of starting a family. The uncertainty became so intense that it unexpectedly mirrored the emotional journey of the character she was playing, making the film resonate with her in ways she hadn’t anticipated.
Jennifer Lawrence Feared She Wouldn’t Be Ready For Motherhood
Speaking on Variety’s Actors on Actors with Viola Davis, Lawrence reflected on the period before becoming a mother. She explained that she filmed part of ‘Causeway’ before getting married, then returned to complete the movie after the pandemic while being pregnant.
Looking back, she described that chapter of her life as emotionally overwhelming. “It was the scariest thing in the entire world to think about making a family,” Lawrence said. “What if I f— up? What if I can’t do it?” She admitted those thoughts consumed her throughout the pregnancy.
“I was so scared that I would f— it up.” The actress also revealed that some outlets interpreted those remarks as if she was expressing doubts about her desire for a family. In reality, she was describing the fear and uncertainty that came with such a major life change.
Lawrence found it remarkable that ‘Causeway’ reflected many of the same emotions she was experiencing off-screen. “It was so interesting to make a movie where I’m feeling so scared,” she explained, noting how her own fears mirrored those of her character’s.
The Worries Didn’t End After Becoming A Mom
Lawrence admitted those anxieties didn’t disappear once her son, Cy, arrived. Instead, they simply changed shape as she adjusted to motherhood. “Every day of being a mom, I feel awful. I feel guilty,” she said. She constantly questions whether she’s making the right decisions.
In Case You Missed It: Jennifer Lawrence Almost Walked Away From ‘The Hunger Games’ For A Completely Different Dream
These include wondering if her son would rather be outside, whether he’s too cold, or if she’s doing enough to help him grow and learn. The conversation prompted Viola Davis to share one of her own parenting scares after accidentally locking her daughter inside a hot car.
The story immediately resonated with Lawrence, who responded with an experience of her own. “I drove around with mine, didn’t realize he wasn’t buckled into the car seat,” Lawrence admitted. “He was just teetering around, just flying.”
Laughing at herself afterward, Lawrence added, “OK, great! Good to know that we all almost killed our kids.” The exchange highlighted something both actresses agreed on: even parents who appear confident from the outside spend plenty of time worrying they’ve made a mistake.
For Lawrence, admitting those fears publicly wasn’t about questioning motherhood. It was about showing that uncertainty often comes with caring deeply, especially when your kids are super young.
You Might Also Like To Read: “I Definitely Hit the Limits”: Christopher Nolan Reveals When Fans Can Expect His Next Movie After ‘The Odyssey’
