Josh Hartnett reveals stalking incidents drove him to leave Hollywood

Josh Hartnett recounted an incident where a man claimed to be his father and appeared at a premiere armed with a gun.

In a candid interview with The Guardian, actor Josh Hartnett revealed the chilling stalking incidents that drove him to leave Hollywood nearly two decades ago. Speaking from his estate in Hampshire, England, where he now resides with his wife, Hartnett detailed the escalating fear he experienced as people began showing up at his home and even a movie premiere with a gun.

Hartnett recounted a particularly frightening incident where a man claimed to be his father and appeared at a premiere armed with a gun. This individual was subsequently arrested and imprisoned. The actor admitted that these incidents were not the sole reason for leaving Los Angeles, but they significantly contributed to his decision to prioritize his safety and well-being.   

While Hartnett continues to act in films, including M. Night Shyamalan's upcoming thriller "Trap," he acknowledges that his career path could have been vastly different. The unsettling experiences in Hollywood ultimately led him to re-evaluate his priorities and seek a more peaceful life away from the constant scrutiny of the limelight.

Reflecting on his decision, Hartnett expressed contentment with his current trajectory, emphasizing the valuable time he now spends with his children. He acknowledged that while his career might have taken a different route, Hollywood's intrusive nature made him feel trapped, prompting him to choose a path that prioritized his personal life and peace of mind.