Pushing wasn't the problem here, at least not the primary one. It was a lack of love, understanding, and support from parents. He didn't feel heard, he didn't

Pushing wasn't the problem here, at least not the primary one. It was a lack of love, understanding, and support from parents. He didn't feel heard, he didn't feel loved. His mother made it clear what her priority was, and it wasn't him. Will probably could have been an actor and had a loving supportive mother. At least it's possible. Plenty of children benefit from hard work with their families. When the relationships are toxic then that time becomes toxic probably along with the activity. When there's love, they may not do that thing forever, but they will not hate it like this. With my children, I encourage exploration of their skills, desires, and I've started them on paths towards lifelong careers from youngish ages (12-13). Which includes learning skills and testing things out. But I keep a keen ear open to their desires and an eye on their actual aptitudes and try really hard to match them up with useful work that they will like long term. I also try not to push so hard I kill the joy in the exploration and discovery while trying to keep expectations up and providing on-level material for them to level up at their own pace. Children want expectations. They need expectations. Just also fill their lives with love — especially active love involving your time and attention. So that they thoroughly know that they are loved and valued well above and beyond any of these things or activities, and it will generally go well.