Dafne Keen Reflects on Child Stardom and Safety on Set

Dafne Keen, the 21-year-old actress known for her breakthrough role as Laura in the 2017 film "Logan," recently opened up about the challenges of growing up in the entertainment industry. During an appearance on the "Inside of You" podcast, Keen revealed that she was exposed to illicit substances at industry events while still a young child, specifically noting that she was offered cocaine at wrap parties when she was only 11 or 12 years old.

The actress explained that these early experiences with the darker side of Hollywood influenced her decision to avoid drugs and alcohol entirely. Keen described herself as a "control freak" regarding her personal habits, noting that she has never been intoxicated. She shared that as a teenager, she often used excuses to avoid peer pressure, pretending to be under the influence when she was actually sober, simply to navigate social situations without feeling alienated.

Reflecting on her time filming "Logan," Keen expressed deep gratitude for her co-star Hugh Jackman. She credited him with acting as a protective parental figure who shielded her from the pressures of a high-stakes film set. According to Keen, Jackman ensured that her working hours were strictly managed and that she was insulated from any behind-the-scenes tensions, allowing her to maintain a sense of normalcy and fun despite the demanding nature of the production.

Beyond the pressures of the set, Keen discussed the unsettling reality of unwanted attention from adult fans that followed her sudden rise to fame. She recounted instances where strangers would track her down at her school in Madrid, sending disturbing gifts such as Bibles and music boxes. She described these encounters as "terrifying," particularly given her young age at the time and the intensity of the superhero fandom surrounding her character.

Despite these frightening experiences, Keen maintains a balanced perspective on her interactions with the public. Drawing on advice from her late grandmother, she compares negative individuals to someone playing a drum in a waiting room—loud and disruptive, but ultimately outnumbered by the many respectful and kind people she meets. She emphasized that she refuses to let the actions of a few individuals overshadow the positive connections she has made with her audience.

Keen’s career has continued to evolve since her debut, with roles in major projects like the television series "His Dark Materials" and "The Acolyte." As she looks toward the future, she is interested in expanding her creative reach into producing and directing. While she navigates the complexities of public life, she remains focused on maintaining her personal well-being, utilizing therapeutic practices like EMDR to manage the challenges that come with a life in the spotlight.