The talented actress Kathleen Turner celebrates 70 today

Throughout the 1980s, Turner became one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood, starring in a string of successful and memorable films, including: “Romancing the Stone,” “The Jewel of the Nile” and “Peggy Sue Got Married”

The talented actress Kathleen Turner celebrates 70 today

Kathleen Turner was born on June 19, 1954, in Springfield, Missouri, USA. Raised in a family with a strong academic background—her father was a diplomat and her mother a chemist—Turner’s early years were spent traveling, living in various countries due to her father’s job. This international upbringing exposed her to diverse cultures and experiences, enriching her perspective and shaping her artistic sensibilities.
Turner’s interest in acting blossomed during her teenage years, and she pursued this passion by studying theater at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Her stage career began in earnest in the late 1970s with notable performances in regional theater. Her big break came in 1981 when she made her film debut in the neo-noir thriller “Body Heat,” directed by Lawrence Kasdan. Her sultry performance as the femme fatale Matty Walker catapulted her to stardom and established her as a leading lady in Hollywood.
Throughout the 1980s, Turner became one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood, known for her versatility and distinctive husky voice. She starred in a string of successful films, including: “Romancing the Stone” (1984) and it’s sequel “The Jewel of the Nile” (1985) – a romantic adventure comedy where Turner played the role of romance novelist Joan Wilder, earning her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress, “Prizzi’s Honor” (1985) – a black comedy where Turner starred alongside Jack Nicholson, “Peggy Sue Got Married” (1986) – directed by Francis Ford Coppola, Turner received an Academy Award nomination for her role as a woman who travels back in time to her high school days and “The War of the Roses” (1989) – a memorable dark comedy about a couple’s increasingly bitter divorce, co-starring Michael Douglas and directed by Danny DeVito. Turner also provided the voice for Jessica Rabbit in the 1988 animated/live-action hybrid “Who Framed Roger Rabbit,” adding another iconic role to her repertoire.
In the 1990s, Turner continued to work in film, television, and theater, although her career faced challenges due to health issues. She was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, which significantly impacted her ability to work. Despite these challenges, Turner remained active in the industry, taking on roles that allowed her to continue showcasing her talent.
Turner’s later notable works include appearances in television series like “Friends,” where she played Chandler Bing’s drag queen father, in the hit series “Californication,” and stage performances such as her critically acclaimed role as Martha in the 2005 Broadway revival of “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” which earned her a Tony Award nomination.
Kathleen Turner was married to real estate entrepreneur Jay Weiss from 1984 to 2007, and they have one daughter, Rachel Ann Weiss. Turner has been open about her struggles with alcoholism and her battle with rheumatoid arthritis, using her platform to raise awareness about the disease and advocate for better treatment options.
Today, Kathleen Turner remains active in the entertainment industry and she continues to take on roles in both film and theater, recently appearing in independent films and stage productions. Turner has also become a prominent voice in advocating for actors’ rights and health issues, often speaking at events and engaging in public discussions.
Turner’s autobiography, “Send Yourself Roses,” co-written with Gloria Feldt and published in 2008, offers an introspective look at her life and career, detailing her triumphs and challenges.



Watch an interview with Kathleen Turner and Michael Douglas where they look back at their work together and friendship

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