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Laura Dern Called Insane for Quitting College for Acting Success

Laura Dern, an acclaimed actress and Academy Award winner, made headlines when she revealed that she was once labeled “insane” for dropping out of college to pursue her acting career. This decision came after she was cast in the iconic film “Blue Velvet,” which ultimately catapulted her to fame. Dern’s experience highlights the often tumultuous relationship between education and the pursuit of artistic dreams.

Early Life and Education

Laura Dern was born into a family of actors, with her parents, Bruce Dern and Diane Ladd, both having successful careers in Hollywood. Growing up in such an environment, Dern was exposed to the world of acting from a young age. She attended the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she enrolled in the film school program. However, her time at UCLA was short-lived, as she was soon faced with a life-changing opportunity that would alter her career trajectory.

The Decision to Drop Out

In a recent episode of the podcast “Where Everybody Knows Your Name,” hosted by Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson, Dern recounted the moment she was forced to choose between her education and her burgeoning acting career. After just two days at UCLA, she auditioned for and was offered the role of Sandy Williams in David Lynch’s “Blue Velvet.” This opportunity was too significant for Dern to pass up, leading her to request a leave of absence from her studies.

However, the head of the film department at UCLA was not supportive of her decision. Dern recalled being told that taking time off for a film was not a valid reason and that she would be expelled if she chose to pursue the role. The head of the department even went so far as to label her decision as “insane,” questioning why she would give up her education for a film role. Despite the shock of this response, Dern ultimately chose to follow her passion for acting, a decision that would prove to be pivotal in her career.

Impact of “Blue Velvet”

“Blue Velvet,” released in 1986, became a cult classic and is often regarded as one of the most significant films of the 1980s. Dern’s performance as Sandy Williams was critically acclaimed and marked the beginning of her rise to stardom. The film not only showcased her talent but also solidified her place in Hollywood. Following “Blue Velvet,” Dern starred in several other successful films, including “Mask” and “Jurassic Park,” further establishing her as a leading actress in the industry.

Reflections on Education and Career Choices

In her podcast interview, Dern expressed her thoughts on the current state of education in film schools, noting that UCLA now includes “Blue Velvet” as a required study for graduate students. She reflected on how her experience at UCLA has changed over the years and how the institution has adapted to the evolving landscape of the film industry. Dern’s story serves as a reminder that the path to success is not always linear and that sometimes, taking risks can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

Other Actors Who Dropped Out of College

Laura Dern is not alone in her decision to leave college for a career in acting. Many successful actors have made similar choices, including Jake Gyllenhaal, Matt Damon, and Halle Berry. Gyllenhaal left Columbia University after two years to pursue acting, while Damon dropped out of Harvard University to focus on his film career. These stories highlight a common theme in Hollywood: the tension between formal education and the pursuit of artistic passion.

Conclusion

Laura Dern’s journey from a college student to an Academy Award-winning actress is a testament to the power of following one’s dreams. While her decision to drop out of UCLA was met with skepticism, it ultimately led to a successful and fulfilling career in the film industry. Her story encourages aspiring actors to weigh their options carefully and consider the potential rewards of taking risks in pursuit of their passions.

FAQs

1. Why did Laura Dern drop out of college?

Laura Dern dropped out of UCLA’s film school after being cast in the film “Blue Velvet,” which she felt was a significant opportunity for her acting career.

2. What was the reaction of UCLA’s film school to Dern’s decision?

The head of the film department at UCLA told Dern that her choice to leave for acting was “insane” and that she would no longer be welcome at the school if she pursued the role.

3. What impact did “Blue Velvet” have on Laura Dern’s career?

“Blue Velvet” was a critical success and helped launch Dern’s career, leading to further roles in major films such as “Jurassic Park” and “Marriage Story.”

4. Are there other actors who have dropped out of college?

Yes, many successful actors, including Jake Gyllenhaal, Matt Damon, and Halle Berry, have also dropped out of college to pursue their acting careers.

5. What does Laura Dern think about film education today?

Dern has noted that UCLA’s film school has changed its curriculum and now includes “Blue Velvet” as a required study for graduate students, reflecting on how education in film has evolved.

6. What awards has Laura Dern won?

Laura Dern has won several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Marriage Story” and multiple Primetime Emmy Awards.

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