Gillian Anderson reveals shocking childhood dream, and how her fear of the sea inspired her role in “Tron: Ares”
Gillian Anderson opens up about her dream and new sci-fi role
Hollywood star Gillian Anderson has made a surprising confession, before becoming an award-winning actress, she dreamed of being a marine biologist, despite her deep-rooted fear of the ocean.
In a candid conversation with HELLO! magazine, the 57-year-old actress reflected on her unlikely childhood ambition, saying she once seriously considered studying marine life before attending drama school. “Before I went to drama school, I seriously looked into it, which was weird because I was scared of the sea. Even now, I’m one of those people who doesn’t like to swim out of my depth,” Anderson admitted.
The revelation adds a new layer of irony to the life of an actress who has spent decades portraying strong, fearless characters in some of television’s most iconic franchises.
READ ALSO
Kim Kardashian channels real-life divorce lawyer in Ryan Murphy’s bold new legal drama, All’s Fair
Jonathan Bailey named PEOPLE’s 2025 Sexiest Man Alive — Inside his rise from “Bridgerton” to Hollywood royalty
From the Depths of Fear to the Frontiers of Sci-Fi
Anderson’s openness about her fear contrasts sharply with her return to the science fiction genre in Disney’s Tron: Ares, where she plays Elizabeth Dillinger, a brilliant tech executive navigating the world of artificial intelligence.
The actress noted how her latest project mirrors real-world issues, particularly around AI’s influence on creativity. “Where Elisabeth is coming from and what she is warning of is exactly what we are facing in the world today with AI,” she explained.
Released on October 10, Tron: Ares follows the story of a digital program crossing into the human world, blurring the lines between technology and humanity. Anderson’s portrayal of a tech visionary adds gravitas to a film that already sits at the intersection of ethics, innovation, and imagination.
Irony in Real Life: A Self-Confessed Technophobe Playing a Tech Genius
Despite her convincing performance as a tech-industry powerhouse, Anderson admitted she’s far from tech-savvy in real life. “I have a computer, I have a phone, and I can use them up to a point. But anything more than that, all the new apps and stuff, I have no idea,” she confessed with a laugh.
Her honesty about technology resonates with fans who see her as refreshingly down-to-earth. It also highlights the intriguing contrast between her off-screen personality and on-screen brilliance.
A Personal Connection Through Tron: Ares
Beyond her professional achievements, Anderson says Tron: Ares has helped her bond with her children. Her sons, Oscar (19) and Felix (17), are sci-fi enthusiasts, and the film offered a chance for them to connect over a shared love for the genre.
“They love sci-fi, and I haven’t really done anything in this genre since The X-Files,” she said. “It’s fun to be able to share this with them. I can’t wait for everyone to see it.”
Anderson also has a 32-year-old daughter, Piper, from her previous marriage to The X-Files assistant director Clyde Klotz.
Rediscovering Gillian Anderson: Fear, Family, and a Fascination with the Unknown
From her breakout as Dana Scully in The X-Files to her award-winning performance in The Crown, Gillian Anderson has always balanced intellect, mystery, and strength. Yet this latest revelation, of her fear of deep waters and her youthful dream of exploring them, reminds fans that even the most composed stars harbor unexpected contradictions.
As Tron: Ares continues to draw attention for its AI-themed storyline, Anderson’s blend of vulnerability and insight makes her one of Hollywood’s most fascinating talents, an artist equally grounded in humanity and imagination.
FAQ – What People Are Searching About Gillian Anderson
Q1: What did Gillian Anderson say about wanting to be a marine biologist?
A1: She revealed she once considered becoming a marine biologist before pursuing acting, despite being terrified of the ocean.
Q2: Why is Gillian Anderson afraid of the sea?
A2: Anderson admitted she’s never liked swimming in deep water and still avoids swimming “out of her depth.”
Q3: What role does Gillian Anderson play in Tron: Ares?
A3: She portrays Elizabeth Dillinger, a technology executive warning about the dangers of AI and creativity loss.
Q4: When was Tron: Ares released?
A4: Tron: Ares premiered globally on October 10, 2025, as the third installment of the Tron franchise.
Q5: What are Gillian Anderson’s thoughts on AI?
A5: She expressed concern about AI’s impact on creativity, saying its rise “concerns us all.”
Q6: Does Gillian Anderson consider herself tech-savvy?
A6: No. She admits she can only handle basic tech functions and often struggles with new apps and devices.
Q7: How does Tron: Ares connect to Gillian Anderson’s family life?
A7: Her sons are big sci-fi fans, and she said the project helped her reconnect with them through a shared love of the genre.
Q8: What other sci-fi roles is Gillian Anderson known for?
A8: Anderson is best known for playing Dana Scully in The X-Files, one of the most influential sci-fi TV series of all time.
Q9: How old is Gillian Anderson now?
A9: She is 57 years old, born on August 9, 1968.
Q10: What makes Tron: Ares relevant today?
A10: The film explores the human-AI relationship and the ethical challenges of artificial intelligence, a theme Anderson calls “completely relevant” to our times.
