Maya Hawke unveils surprising new project amid 'nepo baby' talk

In October 2023, Maya Hawke was confirmed as the narrator for the audiobook adaptation of Joan Didion's 1968 collection of essays, Slouching Towards Bethlehem. This significant work is a reflection of Didion's profound observations on society and culture, capturing her distinctive voice. Hawke, the daughter of actors Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman, expressed her admiration for Didion's writing, highlighting the personal connection she felt with the essays written in the author's youth. During an interview, she mentioned the honor and opportunity it presents to introduce Didion’s literary brilliance to a new audience. Hawke, aged 26, is not new to narration; she has lent her voice to other audiobooks such as Bravey by Alexi Pappas and American Tabloid by James Ellroy. Beyond audiobook narration, she's also involved in animation, providing the voice for a character in Inside Out 2. The upcoming audiobook of Slouching Towards Bethlehem is set for release on November 5, 2023, by Macmillan Audio and is available for preorder as of now. The announcement of Hawke's role has drawn attention due to her background, as she is labeled a 'nepo baby.' In discussions about nepotism in Hollywood, she articulately expressed her comfort with her position and acknowledged the realities of her circumstances. Hawke believes that while there are deserving talents who might not receive similar opportunities, she is honest about her advantages and is at peace with her journey in the industry. The legacy of Joan Didion remains impactful, with her works considered modern classics, reflecting her keen insight into American life. As Hawke prepares to narrate these essays, it not only showcases her talents but also serves to honor Didion’s lasting influence on literature.