Austin Butler recently shared an intriguing anecdote on Jimmy Kimmel Live! that has captured the attention of fans and media alike. The actor, known for his roles in “Elvis” and “Dune: Part Two,” revealed that he once turned down an opportunity to smoke marijuana with none other than Snoop Dogg. The reason? He didn’t want to risk getting too high in front of his hero, Robert De Niro.
During the June 17 episode, Kimmel brought up a memorable photo featuring Butler, Snoop Dogg, and De Niro. The snapshot was taken during a night that Butler described as unforgettable. The actor recounted how a mutual friend invited him over for tacos with the legendary rapper and the iconic actor. “I dropped everything I was doing and I was there in a heartbeat,” Butler said, clearly still in awe of the experience.
Kimmel, who has his own history with Snoop Dogg, asked Butler if the rapper had offered him any marijuana. Butler admitted that Snoop had indeed offered, but he declined. “I was so nervous to get too high and then try to talk to my hero, Robert De Niro, so I refrained,” Butler explained. His respect for De Niro, whom he called his “hero,” was evident in his decision to stay clear-headed.
Kimmel shared his own amusing experience with Snoop Dogg, recalling a time when he visited the rapper’s house. “He had ordered chicken — a lot of it. And I ate a lot of it. He was watching me and I overheard him say to his friend, ‘My nephew done ate six pieces of chicken already,’” Kimmel recounted, adding that it was one of the great moments of his life.
Butler was on the show to promote his upcoming film, “The Bikeriders,” but the conversation naturally veered into other interesting topics. The actor also shared a story about attending a party at Paul McCartney’s house, where he found himself surrounded by stars like Bruce Springsteen and Taylor Swift. However, the person who made him the most nervous was Meryl Streep. “I ended up kind of not having anyone to talk to at one point, so I went into Paul McCartney’s kitchen and I ate some of his vegan pizza … trying to muster the courage to say hello to Meryl Streep,” Butler recalled.
A friend eventually introduced him to Streep, and Butler couldn’t believe he was meeting her with a mouthful of vegan pizza. “She was so sweet,” he said, to which Kimmel agreed, noting that Streep is incredibly talented and equally kind.
Butler’s anecdotes offer a glimpse into the surreal experiences that come with Hollywood fame. His decision to decline Snoop Dogg’s offer highlights his respect for De Niro and his desire to make a good impression. It’s a relatable moment that shows even celebrities have their heroes and moments of nervousness.
The actor has been dating Kaia Gerber since December 2021, and his career continues to soar with roles in high-profile films. His appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! not only promoted his new movie but also provided fans with entertaining and relatable stories from his life.
In a world where many would jump at the chance to smoke with Snoop Dogg, Butler’s choice to stay sober in front of De Niro adds a layer of authenticity to his persona. It’s a reminder that even in the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, some moments are too important to risk.
