Phoebe Cates is an American actress and former model known for her memorable roles in the 1980s. She was known to mainstream audiences for her performances in the landmarks of the famous film Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982), in which her character, Linda Barrett, was the center of one of cinema’s most famous scenes, and Gremlins (1984), which demonstrated her sly beauty and range. After a successful career based on all those girl-next-door movies and the natural talent she displayed in her many TV series, Cates left Hollywood to devote her life to her family and her interests, including running a NYC boutique she co-owned called Blue Tree. Her legacy lives on as a beloved figure of 1980s pop culture.
Early Stardom in the 1980s
Phoebe Cates was a major movie star in the 1980s. Her breakout role in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” (1982) showed off her talent and charisma.
Iconic Roles and Memorable Performances
After her debut, Cates appeared in “Gremlins” (1984) and its sequel, “Gremlins 2: The New Batch” (1990). These movies established her as a famous star of the time.
Transition from Acting to Family Life
Cates married the actor Kevin Kline in 1989. The couple has a pair of children: Owen (1991) and Greta (1994).
A Brief Return to the Screen
Cates briefly returned to film in 2001 before stepping away from acting again. She had a role in “The Anniversary Party,” directed by her friend Jennifer Jason Leigh.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Boutique Ownership
In 2005, Cates launched Blue Tree, a boutique on Madison Avenue in New York. A carefully curated selection of unique finds that reflect her taste.
Recent Public Appearances
Cates still makes sporadic public appearances. She attended the 71st Annual Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall in New York City in 2017.
Family Life and Personal Pursuits
For years, Cates and Kline have stayed out of the limelight, keeping their family life mostly private in their New York City home. Their daughter, Greta, by her stage name, Frankie Cosmos, has followed in her parents’ footsteps into the entertainment world, becoming a successful musician.
A Lasting Legacy in Film and Beyond
Phoebe Cates’ evolution from ’80s teen sensation to hands-on mom and businesswoman highlights her diverse talents and timeless allure. She is still inspiring fans and admirers across the globe with her film contributions and successful ventures outside of Hollywood.
