Bradley Cooper on Fatherhood: ‘Learn from past mistakes’.

Amanda HardingJuly 7, 2023

Actor Bradley Cooper Opens Up About Father’s Death and Parenting Perspective

In a candid interview on “Running Wild with Bear Grylls: The Challenge,” Bradley Cooper, known for his role in “Guardians of the Galaxy,” discussed how his father’s passing has profoundly impacted his outlook on life and his approach to parenting.

During the episode, Cooper reflected on his father’s absence, stating, “Yeah, I wish my dad was around to enjoy more of it, but we all recognize how lucky we’ve been,” as reported by People.

“It was a blessing though,” Cooper continued. “He gave me a huge gift; he died in my arms. To see that kind of factual example of mortality.”

Bear Grylls, the show’s host, acknowledged the difficulty of losing a parent, to which Cooper responded, “Yeah, that’s a hard thing, isn’t it?”

“Did that change how you look at things?” Grylls inquired.

“Oh yeah. Some ways for the worst,” the 48-year-old father of one admitted. “I definitely had a nihilistic attitude after, for a little bit. Just like, wow I’m gonna die. It was not great for a little bit until I realized I had to just embrace who I actually am and try to find peace with that. And then it sorta evened out.”

Cooper, who shares a 6-year-old daughter named Lea with his ex-girlfriend Irina Shayk, also discussed his approach to fatherhood. Reflecting on his own journey with his father, he stated, “You learn from your predecessor’s mistakes, and I’ll make tons that hopefully Lea will learn from. I’m rigorous with myself to grow and to help unburden her with any of my bulls***.”

Having a child and a family of his own has brought a newfound appreciation for the present moment, Cooper shared. “I guess having a child, and having a family of my own — which is a miracle and something I’ve always dreamt of — has opened me up even more, I guess, to the day, and to be present.”

In addition, Cooper expressed his rejection of the term “co-parenting” when describing his relationship with his ex in raising their daughter. “I never understood the term co-parenting… Co-parenting is parenting,” he emphasized.