Ana de Armas Reflects on “Kind and Generous” Keanu Reeves and Their First Meeting on Knock Knock

Key Points

• Ana de Armas praised Keanu Reeves as “kind and generous” while discussing their long‑standing friendship.
• The pair first met on the set of the 2015 thriller Knock Knock, de Armas’ first U.S. film.
• They reunited for the 2025 John Wick spinoff Ballerina, marking a full‑circle moment for the actress.
• Reeves has long supported de Armas’ career, calling her a “wonderful actress” with “inner strength.”
• Their collaboration now spans multiple genres, from psychological thrillers to major action franchises.

A Friendship Rooted in Their First Hollywood Collaboration

Ana de Armas is opening up about her enduring bond with Keanu Reeves, describing the actor as “kind and generous” while reflecting on their first meeting more than a decade ago. Speaking during an “In Conversation” session at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Saudi Arabia, the actress shared heartfelt memories of their early days working together.

Their friendship began on the set of Knock Knock (2015), the Eli Roth‑directed thriller that marked de Armas’ first U.S. film role.

Arriving in Hollywood With Limited English

De Armas recalled arriving in Los Angeles with almost no English when she was cast opposite Reeves. The language barrier made the experience “frustrating,” she admitted, but Reeves’ warmth and patience helped ease the transition.

“Despite everything, we bonded really well,” she said. “We created a beautiful friendship that has lasted all these years.”

Reuniting for Ballerina: A Full‑Circle Moment

The pair reunited for Ballerina, the John Wick spinoff released earlier in 2025. Reeves reprised his role as John Wick, supporting de Armas as she took on the franchise’s lead.

“Having him there, supporting me ten years later, meant a lot,” she said, calling the experience deeply meaningful.

Reeves has also spoken highly of de Armas, praising her “inner strength” and dedication—qualities he noticed even when she learned her Knock Knock lines phonetically.

A Dynamic On‑Screen Partnership

De Armas described Ballerina as “demanding,” but credited her action‑heavy roles in No Time to Die and The Grey Man for preparing her for the physical intensity. Their professional partnership has now spanned thrillers, action films, and major franchises, solidifying them as one of Hollywood’s most compelling duos.

A Lighthearted First Impression

The actress also shared a humorous memory from their early days: she once accidentally told Reeves she had never seen The Matrix. Despite the awkward confession, their friendship only grew stronger.

What Happens Next

As de Armas continues her rise as one of Hollywood’s leading action stars, her long‑standing connection with Reeves remains a defining part of her journey. With both actors expressing interest in future collaborations, fans may not have seen the last of this on‑screen partnership.