How Cooper Hoffman Reminded Costar Judy Greer of His Late Dad Philip Seymour Hoffman: ‘Felt So Familiar’ (Exclusive)

Cooper Hoffman Brings Memories of His Late Father Philip Seymour Hoffman to Costar Judy Greer

Cooper Hoffman’s performance in the new Stephen King film, “The Long Walk,” alongside costar Judy Greer, has brought back memories of his late father, Philip Seymour Hoffman. The actress shared her experiences of working with Cooper in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE.

Judy Greer, who plays the mother of Cooper’s character in the movie, reflected on her time spent with the young actor on and off the set. Despite being cognizant of Cooper’s lineage – his father, the legendary actor Philip Seymour Hoffman – Greer did not initially draw comparisons between the two. She expressed that while watching Cooper act, she mostly saw him as his own person.

However, there were moments during their interactions off set when Greer noticed subtle resemblances between Cooper and his father. Certain facial expressions or gestures made by Cooper would evoke memories of Philip’s performances. Greer mentioned how these familiar traits resonated with her as a fan of Philip’s work, bridging a connection between the past and present.

In a candid interview, Greer revealed that her initial encounter with Cooper was through his breakout role in “Licorice Pizza” in 2021, where she was captivated by his talent and charisma. At that time, she was unaware of his father’s identity, focusing solely on Cooper’s individuality as an artist. Greer’s admiration for Cooper’s acting prowess only grew as they collaborated on “The Long Walk.”

Directed by Francis Lawrence and based on Stephen King’s dystopian novel, “The Long Walk” features a stellar cast including Mark Hamill. Cooper’s portrayal in the film has garnered praise for his performance and dedication to the role, establishing him as a promising talent in the industry.

Greer highlighted the chemistry she shared with Cooper on set, noting their natural rapport and mutual respect for each other’s craft. Despite the emotionally charged scenes in the movie, their camaraderie and shared laughter eased the intensity of the filming process, creating a comfortable working environment.

As “The Long Walk” hits theatres on September 12, audiences can witness Cooper’s on-screen presence and talent, which pay homage to his late father’s legacy. Greer’s reflections on working with Cooper shed light on the actor’s growth and unique approach to his craft, setting him apart as a rising star in Hollywood.

The legacy of Philip Seymour Hoffman continues to inspire a new generation of actors, with Cooper Hoffman carving his path in the film industry while honouring his father’s memory. Greer’s insights into her collaboration with Cooper provide a glimpse into the nuanced dynamics of performers on and off the screen, showcasing the enduring impact of talent and legacy in cinema.

In conclusion, Cooper Hoffman’s performance in “The Long Walk” not only captivates audiences but also evokes memories of his father’s remarkable career, as observed through the eyes of his costar Judy Greer. The film serves as a testament to Cooper’s burgeoning talent and the lasting influence of Philip Seymour Hoffman in the world of cinema.

Throughout the interview, Greer’s admiration for Cooper’s work and her genuine connection with him offer a compelling narrative of artistic collaboration and personal growth in the realm of filmmaking. As audiences anticipate the release of “The Long Walk,” they can witness the multi-faceted talents of Cooper Hoffman and his tribute to his father’s enduring legacy.