Dafne Keen Reflects on Early Fame and the Importance of Sobriety in Hollywood

Dafne Keen, the actress who gained fame as a child in Logan, reflects on her early experiences in Hollywood, including the pressures of substance use. In a candid podcast interview, she discusses her commitment to sobriety and the protective influence of co-star Hugh Jackman. Keen's journey highlights the challenges faced by young actors and her determination to maintain control over her life choices. As she continues to build her career with upcoming projects, her story serves as an inspiration for many navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 5, 2026, 19:45 IST

A Glimpse into Dafne Keen's Early Career

Dafne Keen, the talented 21-year-old actress known for her breakout role in the 2017 film Logan, has opened up about her early experiences in the entertainment world. Starting her career at the tender age of 11 as the mutant Laura, or X-23, Keen found herself in a professional realm often dominated by adults.

In a recent episode of the Inside of You podcast, she shared her experiences of attending Hollywood events as a young girl. Keen recounted unsettling moments where she was approached with illegal substances, including cocaine, while still in her pre-teen years. These early encounters with such behaviors significantly influenced her personal boundaries, leading her to embrace a sober lifestyle as she transitioned into adulthood.

Facing Industry Challenges and Choosing Sobriety

Keen elaborated on her choice to avoid alcohol and drugs, emphasizing her desire for control and her disinterest in the substances she witnessed during her youth. She enjoys social gatherings, music, and dancing, all while remaining completely sober. To navigate social pressures during her teenage years, she sometimes pretended to have already consumed alcohol, allowing her to enjoy parties without compromising her values.

Her early experiences in the industry shaped her perspective, helping her establish clear boundaries. Keen describes herself as a control enthusiast when it comes to her well-being, which has guided her decisions throughout her career.

Hugh Jackman's Supportive Role

A significant part of Keen's reflections focused on the mentorship she received from Hugh Jackman, her co-star in Logan. She praised him as a remarkable professional and a nurturing figure during their collaboration. Keen highlighted Jackman's efforts to ensure her safety and comfort on set, often protecting her from the more challenging aspects of film production.

She acknowledged Jackman's vigilance in monitoring her working hours and shielding her from any behind-the-scenes stress. His guidance and encouragement were crucial to her positive experience as a young actress. Since her role in Logan, Keen has expanded her career with notable appearances in His Dark Materials, The Acolyte, and she is set to reprise her role as Laura in the upcoming Deadpool and Wolverine films. Additionally, she will star in the series Percy Jackson and the Olympians.