Bradley Cooper, the accomplished actor known for his roles in films like “The Hangover,” “A Star Is Born,” and “Silver Linings Playbook,” has shared insights into how fatherhood has profoundly impacted his life and parenting style. His experiences and reflections offer a glimpse into the world of a celebrity navigating the role of a parent under unique circumstances.

The Impact of Loss on Parenting

Cooper, who co-parents his 6-year-old daughter Lea with his ex, Irina Shayk, maintains a private approach to fatherhood. However, the loss of his own father brought about significant changes in his perspective. On “Running Wild With Bear Grylls: The Challenge,” Cooper discussed how his father’s death led to a nihilistic attitude, which he later overcame by accepting himself and his circumstances. This self-realization influenced his approach to parenting, striving to learn from past mistakes and grow as a father.

A Hands-on, Strict Parenting Style

Despite keeping his relationship with Shayk and their daughter largely private, insights into Cooper’s parenting style have emerged. Known for being a “full-on, hands-on dad,” Cooper does not rely on a nanny. He and Shayk have a strict parenting approach, emphasizing manners and responsibility in their daughter’s upbringing. This includes teaching Lea to clean up after meals and use polite language like “thank you” and “please.”

Changes Brought by Fatherhood

Fatherhood has been a life-changing experience for Cooper. He describes it as having altered everything in his life, providing a new perspective he never knew before. Cooper acknowledges the profound impact of upbringing on personality, emphasizing the importance of providing a loving and supportive environment for his daughter. His commitment to ensuring that Lea always feels loved is a cornerstone of his parenting philosophy.

Finding Joy in Fatherhood

Cooper compares the joy he experiences as a father to the breakthroughs he encounters in his professional life. These moments of joy occur multiple times a day when he’s with his daughter. He enjoys engaging in childlike activities like watching cartoons and playing with toys, finding a new sense of freedom and fun in his role as a father.

Embracing a Childlike Self

Appearing on Ellen DeGeneres’ show, Cooper further elaborated on how fatherhood has allowed him to embrace his childlike side without fear of judgment. He finds genuine enjoyment in the simple pleasures of spending time with his daughter, underscoring a significant shift in his life priorities and experiences since becoming a father.