Margaret Qualley Feared Public Backlash When She Started Her Acting Career

Margaret Qualley Feared Public Backlash When She Started Her Acting Career

Margaret Qualley recently shared her experiences and fears associated with the beginning of her acting career. During a conversation with Vanity Fair, she revealed feeling overwhelmed and anxious about public perception, particularly the possibility of women disliking her and men causing her harm.

Early Career and Breakthrough Roles

Making her film debut in 2013, Qualley starred in Gia Coppola’s film, *Palo Alto*, before turning 20. Since then, she has built an impressive portfolio, amassing 39 credits in film, television, and music videos. Her notable performances include appearances in *Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood* (2019) and the upcoming *The Substance* (2024).

Personal Reflections and Growth

Qualley, who is the daughter of actress Andie MacDowell and Paul Qualley, expressed how her fear of judgment affected her authenticity. “I felt like if I was fully myself, women would hate me and men would hurt me,” she admitted. However, as she gained more control over her life, she began embracing her femininity.

Support and Relationships

The actress credited her husband, Jack Antonoff, whom she married in 2023, for fostering her confidence as an actor. She stated that his support has allowed her to explore all facets of her identity. “Jack has helped me for sure, because he has made me feel more confident to explore all the parts of myself,” she explained.

Upcoming Projects

Qualley stays busy, with three feature films scheduled for release in 2024, and three more in 2025. She is set to star in *How to Make a Killing*, which is releasing soon, and will later appear alongside Jacob Elordi in Ridley Scott’s *The Dog Stars*, hitting theaters on August 28, 2025.

Professional Drive and Challenges

In her pursuit of success, Qualley described herself as “supercompetitive” and “driven.” She acknowledged the pressure of taking on numerous projects simultaneously, which sometimes led to feeling overwhelmed. “I have learned the lesson of my eyes being too big for my stomach professionally,” she reflected.

Furthermore, she addressed her previous projects with mixed emotions, stating, “When I say mistakes, I don’t mean it was the wrong thing, I mean I wouldn’t do it again.”

Margaret Qualley’s journey emphasizes the challenges and triumphs faced by actors in the spotlight. With growing confidence and a series of exciting projects on the horizon, her future in Hollywood appears bright.

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