by Chris Hemsworth has become one of Hollywood’s biggest stars over the past decade, rocketing to fame as the hammer-wielding superhero Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, behind the muscles and million dollar smile, Hemsworth has struggled with anxiety and depression.
In a new interview with GQ Australia, Hemsworth opened up about his mental health challenges and how the support of his wife, Spanish actress Elsa Pataky, helped him through his darkest times.
“A few years ago I was kind of at the end of my rope,” Hemsworth shared. “It was like, ‘What’s the point? I feel like I’m wasting time.’ I didn’t feel like I was living the life that I wanted.”
The crushing pressure of fame and expectations had taken its toll. The constant demands and criticisms that come with stardom had left Hemsworth feeling lost and uncertain about everything.
“There was so much anticipation and pressure surrounding [the Marvel films] that I got to the point where I didn’t know what I wanted to do anymore,” he admitted. “I was also trying to analyze why I wasn’t happy. Was it the career? Was it the place we were living? What was it?”
In 2014, right in the midst of this inner turmoil, Hemsworth married Pataky, who had become his rock amidst the chaos of Hollywood. Their relationship provided Hemsworth with a sense of grounding that combatted his growing depression and anxiety.
“We have a system in place where if one of us is feeling down, the other will try to help pick them up,” Hemsworth explained. “She was there to give me perspective.”
Pataky encouraged Hemsworth to slow down and prioritize his mental health – to stop pouring himself into work and instead nurture his spirit through exercise, healthy eating, and quality time with family.
“My wife was really the one to put it all into perspective,” Hemsworth noted. “If you’re feeling depressed, you’ve got to shift your perspective on things – why are you putting pressure on yourself? What’s the point of living if you’re not enjoying it? Nobody benefited from me being in that state.”
Following Pataky’s advice, Hemsworth began to claw himself out of depression’s grip. He scaled back on work and traveled less. He spent more time with Pataky and their three children, finding joy in simple domestic life back in Australia. He exercised consistently, surfed daily, and ate a nourishing whole foods diet.
Gradually, Hemsworth began to feel like himself again. The darkness lifted and his trademark enthusiasm and humor returned in full force.
“I don’t know where I’d be without [Elsa],” Hemsworth said. “She was there to pick up the pieces when things were falling apart. And now that I have clarity on what makes me happy and what I want, I’m so grateful to have her support.”
Hemsworth’s journey embodies an inspiring message for us all. His story shows that no matter how famous or successful, everyone struggles sometimes. With the patient support of loved ones, we can overcome our demons and step into the light.
Now thriving mentally and physically, Hemsworth is excited about the future. He and Pataky recently moved back to Australia full-time with their children, embracing a simplified life away from Hollywood.
“We were in LA for years and years and had our time there,” Hemsworth shared. “Moving back to Australia was the best thing we ever did. Quiet, coastal living where it’s not about the business anymore – it’s about being together as a family.”
This renewed outlook has injected Hemsworth’s career with fresh passion and meaning. He brings a new depth to his acting, informed by his real-life experiences. In the recent HBO Max film Spiderhead, Hemsworth plays a troubled man grappling with grief, guilt, and addiction at a mysterious research facility.
“I think the most enjoyable part of my job is when you get to flesh out a character and bring a little bit of yourself into it,” he said. “I wanted to bring a sense of longing and desire to live a happy life…I could definitely identify with those sorts of emotions.”
Hemsworth also has several exciting projects on the horizon, including the Mad Max prequel Furiosa and a Hulk Hogan biopic for Netflix. But he’s careful not to overextend himself, sticking to his new work-life balance.
“Since having kids, my outlook has completely changed,” Hemsworth noted. “My focus isn’t my career anymore – it’s my family, my kids, my wife. That’s what makes me calm and happy.”
Reflecting on his struggles with mental health, Hemsworth hopes his experience can assure others they’re not alone – and that with perseverance and support, we can all find our way through the darkness.
“Everyone has their ups and downs, and life admin can pile up and become a grind. But there’s light at the end of the tunnel,” Hemsworth said.
“If you’re in a funk, spend time with your loved ones. Be honest with yourself about what’s making you unhappy and what steps you can take to address it,” he advised. “Know that no matter how lost you feel, you can get through it.”
Thanks to Elsa Pataky’s devotion, Chris Hemsworth survived his depressive episode to emerge stronger, wiser, and more optimistic. He’s a testament to the healing power of true love and community. With courage and compassion, we can lift each other up.
