Gabriel Basso Talks Stepping Back from Social Media Amid 'The Night Agent' Success

The actor's decision to delete his accounts highlights a growing trend of creatives prioritizing mental health over online presence.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Gabriel Basso, the star of Netflix's hit series "The Night Agent," has made the bold decision to delete all of his social media accounts despite experiencing a meteoric rise in popularity. Basso's move reflects a broader cultural shift towards digital minimalism, as many creatives are intentionally reducing their reliance on technology to focus on what truly matters. The 31-year-old actor, who hails from St. Louis, Missouri, describes feeling "hit with these algorithmic waves" and questioning the value of a digital connection that felt superficial.

Why it matters

Basso's experience highlights a key tension in the age of social media: the pressure to maintain an online presence versus the desire for genuine connection. His decision to prioritize mental health over follower counts is a bold statement in an industry often obsessed with metrics, suggesting a potential shift in Hollywood culture towards a more sustainable and authentic approach to fame.

The details

Basso's career began early, with roles in films like "Super 8" (2011) and a recurring role on Showtime's "The Big C" (2010-2013). He continued to work steadily, appearing in projects like "Hillbilly Elegy" (2020), building a solid foundation before his breakthrough role in "The Night Agent." The success of the Netflix series catapulted Basso into the spotlight, leading to new opportunities like starring opposite Nicholas Hoult in Clint Eastwood's "Juror No. 2" and joining Kathryn Bigelow's "A House of Dynamite." Basso's dedication to performing his own stunts on "The Night Agent" also speaks to a broader trend of actors wanting more involvement in the physical aspects of their roles.

  • Basso began his acting career in the early 2010s.
  • He had a recurring role on "The Big C" from 2010 to 2013.
  • Basso appeared in "Hillbilly Elegy" in 2020.
  • "The Night Agent" was released on Netflix in 2023.

The players

Gabriel Basso

A 31-year-old actor who is best known for his roles in "The Night Agent" and "Hillbilly Elegy." He recently deleted all of his social media accounts, citing the pressure of maintaining an online presence and the desire for genuine connection.

Netflix

The streaming platform that released "The Night Agent," which became a hit and catapulted Basso into the spotlight.

Clint Eastwood

The acclaimed director who cast Basso in the film "Juror No. 2."

Kathryn Bigelow

The renowned filmmaker who has cast Basso in her upcoming project, "A House of Dynamite."

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Basso's approach suggests a potential shift in Hollywood culture, where actors are increasingly recognizing the importance of protecting their mental health and focusing on the quality of their work rather than the quantity of their online followers. This could lead to a more sustainable and authentic approach to fame, with actors like Basso setting an example for others in the industry.