Florence Pugh Reveals Midsommar Role Triggered Six-Month Depression

Florence Pugh has revealed the severe emotional cost of her role in the horror film Midsommar. The actress recently disclosed that the part led to a prolonged period of depression. She made these candid remarks during an appearance on The Louis Theroux Podcast.

Pugh described the on-screen grief as feeling “horribly real.” This intense emotional commitment had a lasting impact on her mental health long after filming concluded.

The Immersive Toll of Portraying Grief

Pugh explained the psychological process she used for the role. Her character, Dani, endures a horrific family trauma involving murder and suicide. Pugh stated she had never personally experienced anything close to that level of pain.

To authentically portray Dani’s constant state of panic, the actress immersed herself completely. She began by imagining hearing news of a sibling’s death. Her methods intensified as the shoot progressed.

She eventually visualized attending her own family’s funeral. This self-manipulation of her emotions was a new and brutal experience for her.

The Aftermath and Lasting Impact

The psychological fallout did not end when filming wrapped. Pugh immediately traveled to Boston to shoot Greta Gerwig’s Little Women. She had only three days between projects.

On the flight from Budapest, she experienced a powerful emotional release. She began weeping, feeling she had abandoned her character. Her brain was processing the extreme emotional abuse she had put herself through.

According to Rolling Stone, her performance was widely praised for its raw power. The critical acclaim, however, came with a significant personal cost. The actress has stated she cannot exhaust herself in that manner again.

The role in Midsommar showcased Florence Pugh’s incredible commitment to her craft. Her revelation about the subsequent depression highlights the very real risks of method acting. This serves as a stark reminder of the human cost behind powerful performances.

Thought you’d like to know

What is Midsommar about?

Midsommar is a 2019 folk horror film directed by Ari Aster. It follows a grieving woman who travels to a unique midsummer festival in a remote Swedish village.

How did critics receive Florence Pugh’s performance?

Critics universally praised her portrayal of Dani. Rolling Stone highlighted her “toxic strength” and called her work validating and powerful.

What did Florence Pugh do after filming Midsommar?

She immediately began work on Little Women. The transition was abrupt, with only a three-day break between these demanding projects.

Has Florence Pugh worked with Ari Aster again?

There is no public record of a subsequent collaboration. Pugh has praised Aster as a “mad genius” but found his therapy session techniques challenging.

Would Florence Pugh take on a similarly draining role now?

She has expressed reluctance. Pugh stated she cannot abuse her emotions in that way again due to the long-term negative impact on her wellbeing.