Anna Kendrick Reveals the Shocking Words George Clooney Used to Calm Her Nerves on Set
For Anna Kendrick, stepping into the spotlight early in her career meant facing a whirlwind of new challenges and insecurities, especially when cast alongside Hollywood icon George Clooney. In a recent interview on Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace?, the actress looked back at one particularly pivotal moment on the set of Up in the Air, where Clooney's simple but impactful words offered her a sense of reassurance and shifted her approach to acting.
Overcoming Fear on a High-Stakes Set
In 2009, Kendrick was on the brink of stardom, preparing to co-star alongside George Clooney in Up in the Air, a film directed by Jason Reitman. For the young actress, this role felt like an enormous leap. She had already earned acclaim for her work in indie films and would soon become widely known for her role in the Twilight saga, but Up in the Air offered a new level of prestige, bringing Kendrick face-to-face with Clooney, one of Hollywood’s most respected actors.
Kendrick’s nerves were at an all-time high. “It was absolutely terrifying — I mean, completely terrifying,” she shared. She recalled feeling the weight of Clooney’s established reputation. “To others, he is kind of capital-G George, you know?” she said, explaining how Clooney’s star power made the experience even more daunting. “But he goes out of his way to help you forget that and feel at ease.”
Her first scene with Clooney also happened to be her first shot for the film. Positioned together on an airport people-mover, waiting for the cameras to roll, Kendrick’s nerves were palpable. But Clooney seemed to sense her anxiety. As they waited, he broke the silence with a surprising question: “‘Do you get nervous on the first day? I get so nervous,’” Kendrick remembered him saying. “‘Do you feel insecure? I feel really insecure.’”
The words struck a chord with Kendrick. Here was Clooney, a household name and Hollywood veteran, admitting to insecurities. “Yes, I do, George. I do. I completely get nervous. I absolutely feel insecure,” Kendrick replied. His vulnerability disarmed her and created an immediate sense of connection.
Clooney’s Hidden Gesture of Support
Years later, Kendrick would come to understand the true generosity of Clooney’s words. “He said, ‘I worry. Did they even hire the right person?’” Kendrick recalled. At the time, she took his words at face value, feeling comforted by the idea that Clooney shared her self-doubt. “But it took me years to realize, ‘No, he doesn’t! George Clooney does not get nervous or insecure about being hired for the job,’” she said, laughing at the memory.
Reflecting on it now, Kendrick recognizes that Clooney’s vulnerability was likely a strategic move to help her relax and perform her best. “It was such a compassionate thing for him to say,” she said, explaining that his words allowed her to embrace her own feelings without shame. “That gesture gave me this sense of comfort, even if it was entirely fictional.” Clooney’s compassion served as a reminder that acting is about more than just talent — it’s about creating an environment where everyone can perform at their best.
Clooney’s Legacy of Empathy on Set
Kendrick’s story highlights not only Clooney’s skill as an actor but also his remarkable empathy as a co-star. In a previous interview with Business Insider, Kendrick reflected on how Clooney's professionalism influenced her approach to acting. “He was genuinely the first actor I worked with who would attentively listen to the feedback given to others,” she said. Rather than focusing solely on his own performance, Clooney would adjust his own delivery off-camera to support his scene partners. “It was incredible. He would modify his performance to facilitate the necessary adjustments for other actors.”
This insight into Clooney’s methods shows his deep respect for the craft and for his fellow actors, a quality that made a lasting impression on Kendrick. Up in the Air went on to earn six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and acting nominations for Kendrick, Clooney, and co-star Vera Farmiga. For Kendrick, the experience was not only a career milestone but also a formative learning experience, affirming her commitment to the craft and showing her the value of supporting those around her.
New Horizons: Kendrick’s Directorial Debut with Woman of the Hour
Today, Kendrick’s career has come full circle as she steps behind the camera for her directorial debut in Woman of the Hour, a true-crime thriller based on the notorious story of Rodney Alcala, the "Dating Game Killer." Kendrick plays a leading role in the film while also navigating the unique challenges of directing. Speaking with PEOPLE in October, Kendrick described the dual responsibilities of acting and directing as an intense experience, likening it to “directing with a blindfold on.”
She explained the challenge of balancing her roles. “I would rush to the monitor, request to view 30 seconds from the middle of that take, and hope for the best that there would be no unexpected surprises when I entered the editing room,” she said. The project has been a test of Kendrick’s adaptability, requiring her to trust her instincts while still learning the ropes of directing. “It’s been a huge learning experience, but I’m so grateful to be in this position,” she said, adding that directing has given her a new perspective on the craft.
Carrying Clooney’s Lessons Forward
Looking back, Kendrick sees Clooney’s guidance as more than just a thoughtful gesture; it’s a model for how she hopes to approach her own projects, especially now as a director. Clooney’s ability to create an open and supportive atmosphere on set left a lasting impression on her, and it’s a quality she aspires to emulate. “He taught me the importance of extending kindness and understanding to others, especially in environments where the stakes are high,” she shared. Clooney’s generosity helped her discover that true professionalism isn’t just about excellence in performance; it’s also about lifting up those around you.
This lesson has become an invaluable part of Kendrick’s own legacy in Hollywood. In a notoriously competitive industry, Kendrick has come to understand that supporting others — whether through subtle gestures like Clooney’s or through tangible, on-set adjustments — can be transformative. As Kendrick steps into her new role as a director, she’s carrying forward that same spirit of compassion and encouragement she once received from her famous co-star.
Related: Anna Kendrick Donates All Proceeds from “Woman of the Hour” to Charity
A Lasting Bond and a New Beginning
Kendrick’s experience on Up in the Air continues to resonate with her, influencing her work and approach to collaboration. For Kendrick, Clooney’s thoughtful words provided more than just comfort; they served as a foundation for her own path in Hollywood. As she embarks on new creative ventures, Kendrick aims to foster the same sense of understanding and encouragement Clooney extended to her, ensuring that his legacy of empathy lives on.
Whether through her directorial work or her interactions with younger actors, Kendrick’s journey is a testament to the lasting impact of kindness. In an industry that often values results over relationships, her story with Clooney shines as an example of how generosity and empathy can shape a career and leave an indelible mark on someone’s life. With her star still on the rise, Kendrick’s career serves as a reminder that true greatness isn’t just about talent or accolades; it’s about the influence you have on others and the ways you inspire them to do their best. And for Kendrick, Clooney’s words will always be a cherished reminder of where it all began.
