Dave Bautista Opens Up About Past Struggles With Social Anxiety And His Next Big Career Move

It’s easy to see Dave Bautista as the towering, tattooed force of nature who wrestled his way to fame in the WWE ring or as Drax the Destroyer, the deadpan, lovable alien from Guardians of the Galaxy. 

But beyond the muscles and the Marvel makeup lies a man grappling with something many of us can relate to—social anxiety and a lingering sense of unfulfillment.

The former pro-wrestler turned Hollywood star recently sat down for an interview with his My Spy: The Eternal City co-star, Chloe Coleman. During the interview, he opened up about the challenges he faces, both on and off the screen.

Bautista’s honesty is refreshing, especially coming from someone who’s built a career playing larger-than-life characters. “I feel unfulfilled as an actor,” he confessed, his voice tinged with the vulnerability you wouldn’t expect from a man of his stature. 

He elaborated on his desire to be an “A to Z actor,” someone who’s dipped his toes in every genre and crossed off every box on the acting checklist. Although Bautista has a diverse filmography, he admits there are still a few boxes left unchecked—he’s yet to land that deep, dramatic role he’s been craving. 

And guess what? The man also dreams of stepping into the director’s chair, citing his need for control. “I’m a total control freak, so I want to direct,” he said. “I want to direct performances, and I want to make my own film.”

It’s clear that Bautista’s journey as an actor isn’t quite over, and he’s eager to explore more creative outlets.

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Dave Bautista and Chloe Coleman share a candid moment on the set of My Spy: The Eternal City.

Stefano Mazzola/GC Images

But Bautista's vulnerability didn’t stop there. He also touched on his personal struggles with social anxiety, revealing that it’s something he’s lived with since his teenage years. 

In high school, he described himself as a “misfit.” He admired theater kids from afar but never felt comfortable joining them due to his shy, self-conscious nature.

Wrestling became an unexpected outlet, but it didn’t quell his inner performer’s dream—a dream stifled by his fear of stepping into the spotlight.

Fast forward to today, and while Bautista has conquered countless red carpets, the anxiety hasn’t disappeared—he’s just learned to live with it. 

“I used to be embarrassed to say I had social anxiety. I was uncomfortable being close to a lot of people,” he revealed. But as he’s grown older, he’s learned to own it. “I wish I had discovered that earlier. I wish I had been OK with myself at a younger age,” he reflected. 

His words carried the weight of someone who’s made peace with his struggles.

Understanding Social Anxiety

Social anxiety is often misunderstood and can be debilitating for many, including public figures like Dave Bautista. Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, emphasizes the importance of recognizing and naming emotions, which can significantly decrease their impact. She suggests that acknowledging feelings of anxiety, rather than avoiding them, can empower individuals to take actionable steps toward improvement.

David's research indicates that mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing and self-reflection, can help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms. These strategies can transform anxiety into a manageable part of life, fostering personal and professional growth.

For his young co-star, Chloe Coleman, who’s blossoming into a remarkable actress at just 15, Bautista’s journey serves as a powerful inspiration. 

As she steps into her own in Hollywood, she’s got a front-row seat to the reality that even the toughest exteriors can house the most sensitive souls. And maybe, just maybe, that’s what makes Bautista’s story so compelling: a giant who’s not afraid to show his scars.

When discussing social anxiety, it's important to consider the role of supportive environments. A psychological perspective shared by Dr. Rick Hanson highlights that positive social interactions can counteract anxiety. He states that cultivating meaningful connections can provide the safety needed to express oneself authentically.

To create such supportive environments, individuals should actively engage in community and family activities. Psychologists recommend setting small social goals, such as initiating conversations or joining local groups, to gradually build confidence. These strategies reinforce social skills and alleviate feelings of isolation, ultimately leading to improved emotional well-being.

Behavioral Analysis & Pathways Forward

Dave Bautista's journey illustrates the ongoing struggle many face with social anxiety, a condition that can feel isolating yet is more common than we think. Experts emphasize the significance of community support and personal acknowledgment of these feelings. By embracing vulnerability, individuals can foster connections that mitigate anxiety's grip. Techniques like mindfulness and gradual exposure to social situations offer practical pathways to improvement.

As Bautista advocates for openness, it’s clear that recognizing one's struggles can be a powerful step toward transformation and fulfillment, both personally and professionally.