Jodie Foster says early power in Hollywood ‘saved’ her from sexual abuse

Oscar‑winning actress Jodie Foster has opened up about how her early success and industry status helped her avoid the sexual abuse that has plagued many young actors in Hollywood, saying she was “too dangerous to touch” once she earned power in her career. The 63‑year‑old star shared her reflections in a recent NPR “Fresh Air” interview, discussing what she believes kept her safe in an industry marked by power imbalances and predatory behavior.

Foster, who began acting at age three and first rose to prominence at 12 with her role in Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver, told host Terry Gross she has “really had to examine that… how did I get saved?”

She acknowledged that, like many women, she encountered “misogynist microaggressions” in the workplace but never suffered the “terrible experiences” that befell many of her peers.

“By the time I had my first Oscar nomination, I was part of a different category of people that had power and I was too dangerous to touch,” Foster said, explaining that her early recognition gave her leverage that may have deterred improper advances. “I could’ve ruined people’s careers or I could’ve called ‘Uncle,’ so I wasn’t on the block,” she added.

Foster also reflected on her own personality, suggesting that her emotional guardedness made it difficult for others to manipulate her. “It’s very difficult to emotionally manipulate me because I don’t operate with my emotions on the surface,” she said, noting that predators often exploit vulnerability, which is “much easier when the person is younger … or has no power.”

Despite escaping severe abuse, Foster’s comments highlight the broader issue of power dynamics in Hollywood, especially for child actors. She contrasted her experience with the many stories of exploitation that have emerged in recent years, affirming that her early success and visibility likely played a crucial role in her ability to navigate the industry safely.