Saoirse Ronan Discusses Protecting Young Actors: 'I Was Very Lucky'

Actress Saoirse Ronan expressed her gratitude for having a positive experience as a young actor in the film industry. In an interview with People, she mentioned that her mother's presence and a supportive work environment made her career journey from a young age feel safe and enjoyable.

Ronan, now 32, made her acting debut in 2003 through the Irish medical drama series The Clinic. She believes that a combination of parental protection and the attitude of directors and senior actors who treated her as an equal while still understanding the age difference was key to this positive experience.

"I was really lucky as a young actor because I had the protection of my mum, and also working with great directors and actors who treated me like a peer, but still remembered that I was usually 20, 30 years younger than them," she said.

That experience, Ronan said, allowed her to grow on set in a beautiful way and is the reason why she is still involved in acting today. She is determined to provide the same sense of safety and support to young actors she works with.

"I want to make sure every young person coming up feels that support and encouragement. They're also pushed, but in a way that makes them the best version of themselves, because that's what I got and I really felt the benefit of it," she added.

Ronan also recalled the anxieties she felt when she was younger, which later influenced her approach to new actors. According to her, it's important to realize that young colleagues on set are doing the same job, but often for the first time, making them vulnerable and without the cynicism that long-time adult professionals might have.

In a separate interview with the Irish Times, Ronan acknowledged that fame can easily make one complacent. She emphasized the need to be a strong enough individual and to have people around who remind you of who you are.

"You need to be a secure enough person. And you need people around you to say: 'Remember who you are.' It's very easy to get caught up. To be consumed by it," she stated.

Ronan felt protected from such pitfalls thanks to her family. She also highlighted the role of good producers and criticized those who exploit young actors by overworking them or neglecting safety in dangerous or sexually suggestive scenes.

"But my mum is amazing. Everyone loves my mum. She's always fiercely protected my rights," she concluded.

For Indonesia's growing entertainment industry, Ronan's story serves as an important reflection on the necessity of protection systems for underage artists. Labor regulations and parental supervision are key to preventing the exploitation of young talent. Moving forward, the question arises whether domestic industry players will adopt similar standards to create a safe and sustainable creative environment.