Cate Blanchett Contemplates Leaving Acting for New Adventures

LONDON, England – In a revealing interview published in Radio Times, actress Cate Blanchett discussed her evolving relationship with acting and the possibility of stepping away from her celebrated career. In the lead-up to her final performances of Chekhov’s ‘The Seagull‘ at the Barbican, Blanchett expressed a yearning for new experiences beyond the screen.

“I am serious about giving up acting,” said Blanchett during her conversation with theatre director John Tiffany. She continued, “There are a lot of things I want to do with my life.” Though the 55-year-old did not specify any timeline for her potential exit from acting, her comments suggest a profound contemplation of her next steps.

Blanchett, known for her roles ranging from the ethereal Galadriel in ‘The Lord of the Rings‘ to the acclaimed conductor in ‘Tár,’ described her discomfort with the fame that accompanies her profession. “I’ve spent a lifetime getting comfortable with the feeling of being uncomfortable,” she remarked, highlighting the paradox of being in the spotlight.

As she prepares for her radio drama debut in ‘The Fever‘ by Wallace Shawn, directed by Tiffany, Blanchett reflected on the unique intimacy of radio storytelling. “I’m obsessed with the psychological space that is the interior of people’s cars,” she said, noting that some of her most memorable conversations with her children occur during car rides. “That special space was where my 16-year-old encountered ‘Desert Island Discs‘ and now he’s completely obsessed with it,” she added.

‘The Fever,’ which features Blanchett as an unnamed traveler navigating personal turmoil amid a foreign civil war, is described by the actress as “urgent and demanding.” She expressed excitement about delving into themes of privilege and complicity, stating, “It’s a brutal, beautiful denunciation of global capitalism in which we are all complicit.”

Blanchett’s journey through fame has not been without its challenges. “I find myself profoundly dull,” she confessed, admitting her dislike for interviews and public appearances. She explained that the reality of her persona often feels disconnected from her true self, remarking, “When you see soundbites of things you’ve said…they sound really loud. I’m not that person.”

Despite the allure of leaving acting behind, she remains hopeful about her future and the potential for empathy during challenging times. “I have four children,” said Blanchett, emphasizing the importance of staying optimistic. Her commitment to fostering empathy, especially in a world that often views it negatively, highlights her desire to create meaningful dialogue through her work.

In the public eye, she recognizes the scrutiny that accompanies being a celebrity, especially when discussing systemic issues. Blanchett noted, “Artists who create works of art that inspire sympathy and good values don’t change the life of the poor,” reiterating that conversation is just as crucial as action.

As her illustrious career continues with upcoming projects, including Jim Jarmusch’s ‘Father, Mother, Sister, Brother,’ Blanchett stands at a crossroads, contemplating the weight of her legacy and the possibility of redefining her path. With a deep-seated understanding of both the challenges and privileges her profession entails, Blanchett seems poised to embrace whatever comes next in her journey.