Shadows of the Past: Lily-Rose Depp’s Unease with Her Father’s Classic
Lily-Rose Depp remains haunted by a scene from one of her father’s iconic films.
At 25, the actress is carving her own path in Hollywood, starring in the eerie remake of “Nosferatu,” yet she grapples with unsettling memories tied to a particular ’90s classic from Johnny Depp’s expansive filmography: “Edward Scissorhands.”
The enchanting yet unsettling narrative directed by Tim Burton leaped into audiences’ hearts in 1990. It tells the poignant tale of Edward (Johnny Depp), an unfinished creation whose scissor-like hands alienate him from the warmth of suburban life, a world that should have embraced him.
“I was traumatized by it,” Lily-Rose reflected in an insightful conversation with Harper’s Bazaar. “Not because I thought he was scary, but because everyone was being so mean to him. That made me so upset. I remember being petrified by that, which is strange, since my childhood memories are few.”
She further elaborated, “It’s a tough reflection from my childhood. Edward is portrayed as the misunderstood hero, while Nosferatu emerges more as the antagonist. Yet, weirdly, I find myself feeling a strange empathy for Nosferatu. Am I strange for this?”
“I remember being petrified by that, which is weird, because I don’t have many memories from when I was that young.”
In Robert Eggers’ chilling reimagining of “Nosferatu,” Lily-Rose embodies Ellen Hutter, a character profoundly entwined with the vampire’s supernatural existence, hinting at connections that transcend mere fear.
When she was questioned about her shared interests in film and the fantastical realms they explore—particularly considering her father’s long-standing collaboration with Tim Burton—Lily-Rose admitted feeling a sense of solace within the gothic aesthetics. “You could say that,” she acknowledged. “We interpret our roles very differently, but surely, you are shaped by your surroundings, and such a world has always intrigued me.”
Years into her career in both acting and modeling, Lily-Rose has consistently addressed the “nepo baby” narrative, reinforcing her position through her own words. Speaking with the Daily Telegraph, she pointed out, “Each role has its own scenarios, and fame entails a specific set of circumstances. For me, the focus has been on nurturing my sense of privacy and authenticity.”
She continued, “People sometimes pry into areas that deserve respect, and as an actor, melding with a character is vital. For them to truly believe in my portrayal, it’s crucial that they see beyond the person I am.”
Lily-Rose’s portfolio includes multi-faceted roles in films such as “Crisis,” “Voyagers,” and “Silent Night.” She also shared the screen with Abel Tesfaye—better known as The Weeknd—in HBO’s “The Idol.” Her depth as an actress enables her to explore emotional landscapes that resonate more than just generational labels.
In a reflective dialogue with Elle magazine, she acknowledged the scrutiny that comes with her lineage. “The opinions out there seem to fixate on the family tree rather than the talent behind it. But I can assure you, securing a role goes far beyond just a name. Your fit for the character is all that matters. Yes, the last name may get you in the door, but it’s the sheer dedication that takes you further.”
This balance between family legacy and personal growth symbolizes a profound intersection in Lily-Rose’s journey, a destination where past shadows and personal illumination converge.
