Jude Law Reflects on Fame and Scrutiny: ‘I’m Proud of How I Handled It’ 

In 1998, Jude Law, currently starring in the new film ‘Firebrand’, enjoyed a thriving acting career but remained relatively unknown on the global stage. Born and raised in London, Law had already found success in theatre and gained recognition from his role on the BBC TV show ‘Shopping’, where he met his future wife, Sadie Frost.

However, it was his role in ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’ alongside Matt Damon and Gwyneth Paltrow in 1999 that transformed his career trajectory.

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“It was a wonderful period of my life,” Law, now 51, reflects to PEOPLE on his rise to becoming a Hollywood star. “It felt like everything I had hoped acting and my career could offer was unfolding.”

Initially, Law’s newfound fame was exhilarating. “I was working with a great director, alongside a talented young cast,” he recalls. “I played a character immersed in jazz, boating, swimming in the ocean, and enjoying delicious food in stunning locations.” The film’s success catapulted Law into overnight stardom: “The response was life-changing, truly.”

With fame came not only invitations to prestigious events like the Golden Globes and Academy Awards and offers from renowned directors but also intense scrutiny of his personal life. “Suddenly, there were expectations and attention on my career choices,” says the Closer actor. “My private life also became a topic of scrutiny. It was a lot to navigate at such a young age.”

Afterwards, Law dated his Alfie co-star Sienna Miller for five years amidst ongoing media attention to his personal life, though he typically focused on his work. Looking back on his early fame, Law reflects, “I was very young when it all started. My eldest son is now 27, and I feel proud of how I handled everything.”

–Farheen Ali