Winona Ryder Says Laura Dern’s Quiet Mentorship ‘Got Me Through’ Early Career After Meeting on “Lucas” Set

Winona Ryder has recently shared heartfelt sentiments about the significant impact actress Laura Dern had on her early career, describing Dern’s quiet mentorship as a guiding light that helped her navigate the challenges of the entertainment industry. In an interview with Elle UK, Winona Ryder, now 53, expressed her deep gratitude towards Laura Dern for the pivotal role she played in her career development. Recalling their first meeting on the set of “Lucas,” Ryder reminisced about how Dern, along with the late River Phoenix, took her under their wing and provided invaluable support during her formative years.

The encounter with Laura Dern during her screen test for “Lucas” left a lasting impression on Ryder, who was just 12 years old at the time. Dern’s kindness and guidance not only helped Ryder navigate the complexities of the audition process but also extended far beyond, offering support and mentorship throughout her formative years in the industry. Ryder fondly remembers the bond she shared with Dern, highlighting the profound impact it had on her personal and professional growth, noting that she found solace and guidance under Dern’s mentorship well into her twenties.

Reflecting on her journey in the entertainment industry, Winona Ryder now pays it forward by offering mentorship to young actors she encounters on set, citing her own experiences as a source of inspiration. Embracing her role as a mentor, Ryder acknowledges the importance of guiding and supporting emerging talents, drawing from her own experiences to nurture and encourage the next generation of actors. Sharing her wisdom and insights with young stars, such as those from the hit series “Stranger Things,” Ryder strives to instil values of perseverance and humility amidst the glitz and glamour of show business.

As an actress who has witnessed the ebbs and flows of fame and success, Winona Ryder emphasises the essence of staying grounded and valuing the craft above all else. Serving as a beacon of wisdom for her young co-stars, Ryder aims to reshape the narrative around fame and fortune, encouraging them to embrace their unique talents and intrinsic worth. By fostering a supportive environment on set and championing the individual strengths of each member of the cast, Ryder seeks to empower young actors to recognise their inherent value and contribution to the industry.

Looking back on her journey from a budding actress to an established Hollywood icon, Winona Ryder cherishes the relationships she has built and the lessons she has learned along the way. Grateful for the mentorship she received from Laura Dern and other influential figures in her career, Ryder embodies the spirit of generosity and guidance in her interactions with aspiring talents. Through her dedication to nurturing young actors and imparting invaluable wisdom gleaned from her own experiences, Ryder continues to leave a lasting impact on the next generation of performers, embodying the essence of mentorship and camaraderie in the entertainment industry.

In a world often defined by competition and rivalries, Winona Ryder’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the power of mentorship and the profound influence one person can have on another’s journey. As she pays tribute to Laura Dern and other mentors who shaped her career, Ryder’s commitment to uplifting and supporting emerging talents stands as a testament to the transformative impact of guidance and encouragement in the tumultuous landscape of show business. Through her words and actions, Winona Ryder embodies the true essence of mentorship, fostering a culture of camaraderie and empowerment that transcends the boundaries of age and experience in the entertainment industry.