Ethan Hawke on Maya Hawke’s future after Stranger Things: “Time to move on”

Ethan Hawke reflects on Maya Hawke’s next chapter after Stranger Things

Ethan Hawke is sharing some candid advice for his daughter Maya Hawke as she prepares to move on from Stranger Things following the show’s conclusion.

Speaking during the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, the actor reflected on Maya’s time on the hit Netflix series, where she became a fan favorite as Robin Buckley. With the show now wrapped, Hawke said the focus should be firmly on what comes next rather than lingering on past success.

“It’s time to move on,” he said, encouraging his daughter to embrace new opportunities and not look back. According to Hawke, learning how to let go is an essential part of building a long, healthy career in the entertainment industry.

Hawke, who attended Sundance for the premiere of his latest film The Weight, also spoke proudly about Maya’s growth as an actor. The two previously collaborated when he directed her in the 2023 indie film Wildcat, but they have yet to appear together on screen.

Hawke said he would welcome the chance to act alongside her in the future, joking about her star power after Stranger Things.

As Maya Hawke transitions into her post-Stranger Things era, her father’s message underscores both his pride and his belief in the importance of continually moving forward, even after a career-defining role.