For many young actors, breaking into Hollywood can be the ultimate dream of fame, glamour, fortune and global recognition. But Tom Hollandthe reality behind the spotlight is much more complicated.The actor and star of the billion-dollar-grossing ‘Spider-Man’ franchise is one of the most sought-after stars today. He will also be seen in two of the biggest movies of 2026: Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ and Marvel’s ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’. Although Tom loves making movies and being an actor, he once admitted that the culture surrounding Hollywood often leaves him uneasy.
Quote of the day
“I really don’t like Hollywood, it’s not for me. Business scares me.”
Tom Holland on his struggle to stay established in Hollywood
Speaking on Jay Shetty’s On Purpose podcast, Holland explained that despite being one of the biggest stars of his generation, he constantly tries to protect himself from being consumed by fame. “Look, I’m really into making movies, but I don’t like Hollywood, it’s not for me,” the actor said, adding, “The business really scares me. I understand that I’m part of that business, and I like that kind of interaction.”Instead of chasing stardom, the actor said he actively seeks ways to maintain a “normal” life away from the limelight. As Holland explained, “I’m always looking for ways to get out of it, to live as normal a life as possible.”
Tom Holland on the dark side of fame
Reflecting on the dark side of fame, he also opened up about losing friends and friendships over time in the industry. He shared, “I’ve seen a lot of people come before me and lose themselves, and I’ve had friends that I’ve grown up with that aren’t my friends anymore because they’ve lost themselves in this business. I think it’s definitely been a constant thought, which is, ‘Don’t lose yourself.'”
Tom Holland focusing on happiness
The actor, who is said to have married his co-star, Zendaya In a silent ceremony, he also shared the idea of happiness. He explained: “I’m really keen to focus on what makes me happy, which is my family, my friends. It’s my carpentry, my golf, the charity that my mum runs. Like, that’s the stuff that really makes me happy, and that’s what I have to protect.”Holland will next be seen in the mythological epic ‘The Odyssey’ which opens on July 17. He will also be seen in the superhero movie ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’, which will be released on July 31. If rumors are to be believed, the actor will make an appearance in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’, which releases on December 18.
