Haley Joel Osment recently shared how Bruce Willis played a pivotal role in shaping his acting career, as they worked together on the 1999 thriller, ‘The Sixth Sense’. When Osment was just 10 years old, Bruce Willis took a deep interest, ensuring his young co-star succeeded in his performance. Despite the passage of time, Osment’s gratitude for Willis’ mentorship remains strong, even as Willis, now 70, faces the challenges of frontotemporal dementia.
During a discussion on ‘The Three Questions with Andy Richter’ podcast, Osment spoke about how Willis’ dedication went beyond the set and extended into late-night efforts to hone the actor’s skills. He reminisced about how the Hollywood action legend would assist him not only during filming but in private rehearsals, helping him perfect his role. Such commitment has inspired Osment to become a protector and mentor for young actors, following in Willis’ footsteps.
Osment noted how important it is for him to provide support to young actors who might not have the same family backing he had. “The kids I’ve worked with seem like they’re coming from good family situations, but you do have this ‘protective’ feeling. I had a great experience, and I want to make that possible for somebody on the set, too.” His connection with other child stars who share similar experiences creates a unique bond, which he describes as both special and difficult to articulate.
Reflecting on his career, Osment draws a parallel between acting and other high-pressure fields like sports, where the risk of an anticlimax looms over success. Yet, he emphasizes a love for the craft, independent of a show’s reception. “Every day I go to work, there’s something new for me to learn,” he explained, highlighting the inherent rewards of the acting process. Osment attributes much of his grounded perspective to his parents, who instilled a strong sense of balance and realism alongside his love for acting.
Bruce Willis’ impact on Haley Joel Osment extends beyond immediate mentorship; it has cultivated a legacy of care and protection for the next generation of child actors. As Osment continues his career, he carries the lessons learned from Willis, ensuring the values of dedication and support live on.
