Brad Pitt Surprises Fans at Austin Screening of 'F1: The Movie'

On Wednesday, Brad Pitt dropped in at the Bullock Texas State History Museum's IMAX Theater for a surprise advance screening of his highly anticipated film, "F1: The Movie," sending Austinites into a frenzy.

Austin Monthly’s Madeline Hollern emceed the event. She cleverly coaxed the crowd to chant "We Love Brad Pitt" for a photo op. And then, like a cinematic reveal, he appeared. The A-list actor descended the steps, and the audience erupted.

Pitt charmed the pants off everyone with a brief Q&A. He confessed his love for Austin and recounted visiting the city in preparation for his role in the film.

"We embarked on this journey, which actually started here in Austin at the F1 track," Pitt said, reminiscing about a 2022 visit to the Circuit of The Americas.

Aside from the Formula One racetrack, Pitt also shouted out our city’s barbecue. He specifically mentioned SLAB BBQ, a recommendation from his niece who's clearly got good taste.

But the fun didn't stop there. Pitt grabbed a T-shirt cannon and blasted merchandise into the screaming crowd.

The event, hosted by Warner Bros. Pictures and Fons PR, culminated with Pitt posing for another photo with the crowd, who enthusiastically yelled "Pitt Crew."

Directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton, "F1: The Movie" promises high-octane action. It also stars Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies, Kim Bodnia and Javier Bardem.

If you missed your chance to rub elbows with Brad, don't fret. "F1: The Movie" speeds into theaters next Friday.