Cate Blanchett is following in the footsteps of Jack Nicholson by planning an early exit from the world of showbusiness. In a recent interview with Radio Times, the 55-year-old actress revealed her surprising future plans – and notably, Hollywood no longer seems to be part of them.
“It’s because I’m giving up acting,” Blanchett stated plainly. She had only briefly mentioned her profession during the introduction, which prompted further questions. The actress, who is a mother of four, admitted it took her a long time to even become “somewhat comfortable with the idea of being photographed”.
Sudden Departure from Acting
The double Oscar winner elaborated further on her decision. “My family rolls their eyes every time I say this, but I’m serious. I’m planning to quit acting,” she said, adding that there are “many things I want to do with my life”.
A Celebrated Career
Born on 14 May 1969 in Melbourne, Cate Blanchett is widely regarded as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation. Her career is studded with accolades, including two Academy Awards: Best Supporting Actress in The Aviator (2005) and Best Actress in Blue Jasmine (2014).
Blanchett’s filmography includes iconic roles such as Galadriel in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Queen Elizabeth I in Elizabeth (1998), and notable performances in Carol (2015), Tár (2022), and Thor: Ragnarok (2017). Despite her achievements, she was also nominated last year for a Golden Raspberry – a satirical award – for her role in Borderlands.
Life Beyond the Screen
In addition to her film career, Blanchett has been active on stage, serving as co-artistic director of the Sydney Theatre Company between 2008 and 2013. She is also deeply involved in humanitarian and environmental causes, serving as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
On the personal front, Blanchett enjoys a quiet family life. She is married to screenwriter Andrew Upton, with whom she shares four children. The couple divides their time between homes in Australia and the United Kingdom.
While the announcement of her retirement may have surprised many, it seems Cate Blanchett is ready to embrace the next chapter of her life – away from the spotlight.
