Fanning recalled uncomfortable moments during interviews, saying, "I remember journalists asking me, 'How are you avoiding becoming a tabloid girl?'” She also mentioned an incident where a journalist asked, “How could you possibly have any friends?” This kind of questioning made her feel confused and awkward.
She expressed empathy for other child stars whose lives have been heavily scrutinized, noting that societal pressures and media portrayals have influenced public perceptions. "I have a lot of compassion for people who have been made into examples," Fanning said, acknowledging that her upbringing in a supportive family helped her navigate the industry more successfully.
Fanning credited her mother, Hannah Joy Arrington, with teaching her the importance of respect for others and herself. She emphasized that she was treated as an equal on set and appreciated the support her mother provided throughout her career.
Dakota and her sister Elle, 26, gained fame together in the 2001 film I Am Sam and have remained active in Hollywood since. Recently, Dakota starred in the Netflix miniseries The Perfect Couple, the horror film The Watchers, and Ripley.
In the interview, Fanning also discussed the pressure she feels from people who seem to expect her to fail, stating, "It makes you feel a little bit guarded. I’m just living my life over here." She emphasized her primary focus on acting rather than celebrity status, saying, "I don’t get dressed to walk down the street. That’s just not me."