Ben Foster Trades Hollywood Glitz for Nashville Roots and Horsepower
After spending ten years immersed in the glitz of Hollywood, actor Ben Foster decided to trade it for a quieter life in a rural setting.
“I resided in Los Angeles for what I'd estimate as 12 years, and New York for a similar duration,” the 44-year-old Foster shared with The Hollywood Reporter in an article released on Wednesday, September 10. “My former spouse, Laura Prepon, and I share two children, and my parents, who are very connected to them, have relocated near Nashville.”
He further explained, "Following the pandemic, I realized quite clearly that I didn't necessarily need to be based on either coast. My passions include horses and horseback riding, and I have a deep appreciation for live music and country tunes. There's been a noticeable migration from the coastal cities, and I've discovered that it’s a more serene environment for me, personally, to establish roots. Nashville offers a distinct lifestyle, and I'm finding it very much to my liking.”
Foster and the 45-year-old That ‘70s Show star Prepon were wed from 2018 until 2024, a period during which they became parents to two children. Foster initiated divorce proceedings last year, with the finalization occurring in April.
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Foster chose not to elaborate on the specifics of his and Prepon's coparenting arrangements following his relocation to Nashville. Nonetheless, he shared with the publication that the move immediately strengthened his connection with Motor City colleague Potsy Ponciroli.
“Potsy’s email to me read, ‘Alright, we can Zoom at noon. Which coast are you on?’ When I replied that I was in Nashville, he exclaimed, ‘No way! Me too!’” Foster recounted to THR. “We opted to meet face-to-face for lunch, all on the same day, directly after I’d finished reading the screenplay. I need to trust my instincts. Overthinking isn't my style; it must resonate with me right away.”
In the forthcoming action movie, Foster portrays a merciless drug lord, sharing the screen with Shailene Woodley, Alan Ritchson, and Pablo Schreiber.
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“It’s akin to how a piece of music draws you in. My approach wasn't about rehearsing dialogue, as there isn't an abundance of it; rather, I was reacting more to the environment,” he enthusiastically described the film. “I'm naturally a physical individual, always inhabiting this body that we navigate daily. I believe I simply felt compelled to embody the character's movements and discuss the scenes. It truly excited me.”
He further stated, “Additionally, the knowledge of [Shailene’s] involvement was significant, as I’ve admired her work for a long time. In acting, there are moments when you take the lead, and others when you step back and allow your co-stars to shine. Shay consistently brings an element of surprise and authenticity.”
