Winona Ryder Recounts Jeff Bridges' Refusal to Kiss Her Due to Age Gap

Winona Ryder shares an amusing anecdote about Jeff Bridges' refusal to kiss her during an audition for the 1994 film "Fearless" because she was "too young."

In a recent interview on the "Happy Sad Confused" podcast with Josh Horowitz, Winona Ryder recalled a memorable audition experience for the 1994 film "Fearless" with Jeff Bridges. The actress revealed that Bridges declined to engage in an on-screen kiss due to her age, leaving Ryder both amused and disappointed.

Ryder, who was approximately 21 years old at the time of the audition, eagerly sought to work with the renowned Coen brothers, who directed the film. The audition overlapped with her commitment to another project, "The Age of Innocence," and Ryder's hurried arrival in costume left her feeling disoriented. Despite her determination, she ultimately "completely blew" the audition.

Winona Ryder Recounts Jeff Bridges' Refusal to Kiss Her Due to Age Gap

Reflecting on the incident, Ryder acknowledged Bridges' reluctance to kiss her, understanding that he perceived her as being of a similar age to his own daughter. "He was like, 'You're like my daughter's age,'" Ryder recalled, adding with a touch of humor, "And I was like, 'Nooo, I love you!'"

Ryder did not secure the role in "Fearless," nor did she land a part in "The Hudsucker Proxy," another Coen brothers film for which she auditioned multiple times. However, she went on to star opposite many Hollywood heavyweights throughout her career, including Keanu Reeves, Adam Sandler, and Christian Bale.

Winona Ryder Recounts Jeff Bridges' Refusal to Kiss Her Due to Age Gap

Ryder's candid revelation offers a glimpse into the complexities and dynamics of Hollywood, where age-related perceptions can influence casting decisions. The actress's ability to laugh at the situation underscores her resilience and her appreciation of the artistic journey, despite occasional setbacks.

In addition to her past experiences, Ryder discussed her upcoming film, "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," which is set to be released in theaters on Friday. She also teased the final season of Netflix's "Stranger Things," which is slated to stream next year, leaving fans eagerly anticipating her return to the beloved small-screen role.

Winona Ryder Recounts Jeff Bridges' Refusal to Kiss Her Due to Age Gap

Winona Ryder's contributions to the entertainment industry span decades, and her versatility and enduring talent continue to captivate audiences. Her willingness to share her experiences, both positive and negative, provides valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs that actors face in their pursuit of artistic expression.