The Lowdown's Ethan Hawke Made His Acting Debut in This Box Office Bomb
Actor Ethan Hawke has built a four-decade career in Hollywood and is currently enjoying a strong second phase, starring in FX’s The Lowdown, which recently completed its first season, as well as the popular Black Phone film series.
Although many fans first recognized Hawke from his breakthrough role in 1989’s Dead Poets Society, his actual film debut took place four years earlier in a little-known sci-fi movie called Explorers, often considered an imitation of E.T..
The director said the studio "ruined" the sci-fi film.
About Explorers and Early Career
- Explorers featured a young Ethan Hawke in his first acting role.
- The film was directed by Joe Dante and also starred River Phoenix.
- Despite its ambitions, the movie performed poorly at the box office.
Additional Notes
Though overshadowed by other successes, Explorers remains a notable part of Hawke’s journey in the film industry.
“The Lowdown’s Ethan Hawke Made His Acting Debut in This Box Office Bomb.”
Hawke celebrates his 55th birthday on November 6, 2025.
Author’s Summary
Ethan Hawke’s long Hollywood career began with the underappreciated sci-fi movie Explorers, illustrating how humble starts can lead to lasting success.