The Lowdown’s Ethan Hawke Made His Acting Debut in This Box Office Bomb
Ethan Hawke has enjoyed a Hollywood career spanning over four decades and is currently experiencing a remarkable second phase. He stars in FX’s The Lowdown, which just completed its first season, and the successful Black Phone film series. Although many first recognized him from the 1989 hit Dead Poets Society, Hawke’s actual film debut came four years earlier in a little-known sci-fi movie called Explorers.
The Director’s Perspective on the Film
The director said the studio "ruined" the sci-fi film.
Explorers was seen as an imitation of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial but failed at the box office, making it a commercial flop despite its intriguing concept and young cast including Ethan Hawke and River Phoenix.
Additional Context
- Ethan Hawke turns 55 on November 6, 2025.
- The Lowdown just finished its first season on FX.
- Hawke is also known for his role in the Black Phone film franchise.
Author's Summary
Ethan Hawke's film career started modestly with the sci-fi flop Explorers, but he has since become a recognized and versatile actor with recent successes in television and film.