Jessica Lange: Jessica Lange is a true Hollywood legend, an actress whose career has spanned over five decades and graced the silver screen, stage, and television. From her breakout role in “King Kong” to her chilling performances in “American Horror Story,” Lange has captivated audiences with her versatility, talent, and undeniable charisma. But beyond the glitz and glamour, there’s more to Lange than meets the eye. Here are 11 fascinating facts about this remarkable woman:
1. A Midwestern Girl with Big Dreams: Jessica Lange
Born in Cloquet, Minnesota, in 1949, Lange wasn’t your typical Hollywood hopeful. Her father was a teacher and salesman, and her mother a homemaker. Despite her small-town upbringing, Lange harbored big dreams of acting, and after graduating from the University of Minnesota, she set off for New York City to pursue them.
2. Parisian Pastime:
Before landing her big break in Hollywood, Lange spent a formative period in Paris, studying mime under the renowned Etienne Decroux. This experience not only honed her acting skills but also instilled in her a deep appreciation for physical expression and movement, which would later become a hallmark of her performances.
3. From Modeling to Movies:
While in Paris, Lange also did some part-time modeling, which is how she caught the eye of Italian filmmaker Dino de Laurentiis. De Laurentiis was so impressed by her presence that he cast her in the lead role of the 1976 remake of “King Kong.” This role catapulted Lange to instant fame and set the stage for her illustrious film career.
4. Triple Crown Winner: Jessica Lange
Lange is one of the few actresses to achieve the prestigious Triple Crown of Acting, winning an Academy Award, an Emmy Award, and a Tony Award. Her Oscar came for her portrayal of Frances Farmer in “Frances” (1982), while her Emmy wins were for her work on the miniseries “Grey Gardens” (1987) and “American Horror Story” (2014). She also won a Tony Award for her performance in the play “Long Day’s Journey into Night” in 1991.
5. A Fearless Genre Explorer:
Lange has never shied away from challenging roles or unconventional genres. She’s embraced everything from psychological thrillers (“Cape Fear”) to gothic horror (“The Haunting”) to biographical dramas (“Sweet Dreams”). This willingness to take risks has kept her career fresh and exciting for audiences and critics alike.
6. A Master of Transformation:
One of Lange’s most remarkable talents is her ability to completely transform herself for each role she plays. Whether it’s the ethereal beauty of Blanche DuBois in “A Streetcar Named Desire” or the deranged Sister Jude in “American Horror Story,” Lange disappears into her characters, leaving audiences in awe of her chameleon-like abilities.
7. A Devoted Mother: Jessica Lange
Despite her demanding career, Lange has always made family a priority. She has two children, actress Shandra Jones and filmmaker Walker Sanders, with her former partner, playwright and filmmaker Frances Fisher. She is known for being a fiercely protective and supportive mother, and her family remains her anchor outside of the spotlight.
8. A Passion for Photography:
Lange’s artistic interests extend beyond acting. She is also an avid photographer, and her work has been exhibited in galleries around the world. Her photographs often capture the beauty and fragility of nature, reflecting a side of her that is less often seen in her on-screen persona.
9. An Advocate for Social Justice:
Lange has never been afraid to speak up for what she believes in. She is a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and has used her platform to raise awareness about important social issues. In 2017, she delivered a powerful speech at the Women’s March in Los Angeles, calling for unity and resistance in the face of political adversity.
10. A Timeless Beauty: Jessica Lange
At 74, Lange continues to defy age and convention. With her piercing blue eyes, radiant smile, and infectious energy, she remains a captivating presence both on and off screen. Her beauty is not just physical, but also a reflection of her inner strength, intelligence, and passion.
WRITTEN BY COLLINS