Jonah Hill is taking more steps to protect his health.
On Wednesday the Oscar-nominated actor shared a lengthy statement in which he explained his decision to halt promotional tours indefinitely. Hill penned the letter after he finished directing and starring in Stutz, a full-length documentary named after his therapist Dr. Phil Stutz. According to Deadline, the project will explore the 38-year-oldâs mental health journey and highlight resources for people dealing with similar issues.
âThe whole purpose of making this film is to give therapy and the tools Iâve learned in therapy to a wide audience for private use through an entertaining film,â he wrote. âThrough this journey of self-discovery within the film, I have come to the understanding that I have spent nearly 20 years experiencing anxiety attacks, which are exacerbated by media appearances and public facing events.â
Hill went on to say Stutz is slated to screen at prestigious film festivals this fall. In an effort to protect his well-being, Jonah has decided not to promote the documentary or any of his upcoming films in person, including the Netflix comedy You People directed by Kenya Barris.Â
âI canât wait to share [Stutz] with audiences around the world in the hope that it will help those struggling. However, you wonât see me out there promoting this film, or any of my upcoming films, while I take this important step to protect myself,â the Donât Look Up star continued. âIf I made myself sicker by going out there and promoting it, I wouldnât be acting true to myself or to the film.â
Hill acknowledged he was fortunate enough to take time off of work without the fear of losing his job, but hopes his decision will further normalize self-care. âI hope the work will speak for itself and Iâm grateful to my collaborators, my business partners and to all reading this for your understanding and support,â he concluded.
You can read Hillâs full message below.
âI have finished directing my second film, a documentary about me and my therapist which explores mental health in general called Stutz. The whole purpose of making this film is to give therapy and the tools Iâve learned in therapy to a wide audience for private use through an entertaining film. Through this journey of self-discovery within the film, I have come to the understanding that I have spent nearly 20 years experiencing anxiety attacks, which are exacerbated by media appearances and public facing events.
Hillâs letter arrives amid the 15th anniversary of Superbad, his 2007 breakout film co-starring Michael Cera. In celebration of the classic comedy, Vanity Fair published an oral history featuring cast and crew. The piece was filled with all sorts of gems, including Hillâs immediate dislike for Christopher Mintz-Plasse (McLovin) during the audition phase.
Producer Judd Apatow recalled, âIn the audition, [Mintz-Plasse] was very caustic and attacked Jonah and did improvs insulting Jonah. ⌠Jonah said, âI donât like that guy. I donât want him doing it.â And I said, âThatâs exactly why weâre hiring him. It couldnât be more perfect. The fact that it bothers you is exactly what we want.ââ
Though Hill admitted he didnât immediately enjoy Mintz-Plasseâs company, he quickly realized he was perfect for the role.
âChris was really, really amazing off the bat,â Hill said. âAnd I think he was really annoying to me at that time.â
You can read the full oral history of Superbad at Vanity Fair.