Actor and director Jonah Hill has decided to refrain from doing press tours to promote his films for the time being because promotion has been detrimental to his mental health.
Hill said he came to a realization during filming for his upcoming documentary Stutz, which documents his conversations with his therapist.
He told Deadline in a written statement:
"I have finished directing my second film, a documentary about me and my therapist which explores mental heath in general called 'Stutz'. The whole purpose of making this film is to give therapy and the tools I've learned in therapy to a wide audience for private use through an entertaining film."
"Through this journey of self-discovery within the film, I have come to the understanding that I have spent nearly 20- years experiencing anxiety attacks, which are exacerbated by media appearances and public facing events."
Despite his choice to protect himself and forgo promotion of the film, Hill is excited for the effect it could have in promoting mental health.
"I am so grateful that the film will make its world premiere at a prestigious film festival this fall, and I can’t wait to share it with audiences around the world in the hope that it will help those struggling."
"However, you won’t see me out there promoting this film, or any of my upcoming films, while I take this important step to protect myself. If I made myself sicker by going out there and promoting it, I wouldn’t be acting true to myself or to the film."
He also recognized his ability to take time off from part of his job is a privilege.
"I usually cringe at letters or statements like this but I understand that I am of the privileged few who can afford to take time off. I won’t lose my job while working on my anxiety."
"With this letter and with 'Stutz,' I’m hoping to make it more normal for people to talk and act on this stuff. So they can take steps towards feeling better and so that the people in their lives might understand their issues more clearly."
The vibe on Twitter was mostly understanding with appreciation for Hill's choice to do what is best for himself.
Many also appreciated Hill was being so open about his reasons and helping to bring attention to anxiety disorders.
Hill has been very open about the affect of being in the public eye, especially from people commenting on his body and sometimes openly mocking his appearance.
He said:
"I know you mean well but I kindly ask that you not comment on my body."
"Good or bad I want to politely let you know it's not helpful and doesn't feel good. Much respect."
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