Austin Butler Shares Bond with Laura Dern, Who Reminds Him of His Late Mom: ‘We Connected on a Soul Level’

Austin Butler has recently opened up about his special bond with Laura Dern, revealing that the Oscar-winning actress reminds him of his late mother. In a heartfelt interview with Men’s Health for a September 2025 cover story, Butler shared how he felt an instant connection with Dern when they met at an event. The article highlighted that Butler, 34, and Dern, 58, found a deep connection that resonated with them on a soul level. This encounter took place during Butler’s exploration of striking a balance between his Method acting technique and personal time for relaxation.

The actor disclosed to Men’s Health that his mother, Lori, passed away from cancer in 2014 when he was 23 years old. Butler described how seeing Dern made him feel like he was looking at his own mother, as people had previously commented on the resemblance between the two women. He shared, “My mom was even told that she looked like Laura Dern, and so as soon as I see her, it’s like: She looks like my actual mom.”

In his portrayal of Elvis Presley in the 2022 film “Elvis,” Butler delved so deeply into the character that he struggled to separate himself from speaking in Elvis’ voice. This intense immersion in his roles has taken a toll on Butler’s health, causing migraines, temporary vision loss, and persistent foot pain following the press tour for “Dune: Part Two” in 2024. Despite his past belief that acting was a gruelling and draining process, Butler is now working towards a healthier approach, with support from people like Dern.

Butler acknowledged the impact Dern has had on his life, stating, “She’s helping me more and more to see that you can come out the other side, and maybe bits of you have healed, and synthesized, and metabolized.” He emphasized that the experience of acting can be therapeutic, and he is grateful for Dern’s guidance and friendship. In an earlier profile by Esquire in February 2024, it was mentioned that Dern serves as a mentor and career-advice sounding board for Butler, underscoring their deep connection beyond just the entertainment industry.

The narrative of finding solace and healing through unexpected connections like the one shared by Austin Butler and Laura Dern is a poignant reminder of the power of human relationships in overcoming personal challenges. Their story resonates with many who have found comfort and strength in the presence of others during times of struggle. Butler’s vulnerability in sharing his journey highlights the importance of seeking support and forming meaningful connections in navigating life’s ups and downs.

As Austin Butler continues to navigate his career and personal life, his bond with Laura Dern serves as a beacon of light and hope, reminding us all of the transformative power of human connection and empathy. Through shared experiences and mutual understanding, Butler and Dern have forged a unique friendship that transcends boundaries and resonates on a profound level. Their story serves as an inspiration for others to seek solace and healing in the connections we make along life’s winding path, finding solace in unexpected places and people.