A Journey of Transformation and Resilience
She was a captivating presence in Hollywood, with her golden hair and mesmerizing blue eyes. Kathleen Turner’s unique beauty made her the object of desire for men everywhere. But as time passed, her appearance underwent a complete transformation.
The Battle with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Kathleen Turner’s physical transformation was not a result of her personal choices, but rather a consequence of a health condition. Diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, doctors informed her that she may never walk again.
Determined to fight against the progressive condition, Kathleen initially took medication to manage the symptoms. However, she grew tired of the harsh judgment and comments from others about the noticeable effects of the drugs on her body. In search of solace, she turned to alcohol, even experiencing a moment of passing out on stage during a theater performance.
In her memoir, Kathleen revealed her struggle to find a cure for this relentless disease. When initially diagnosed in the 1990s, she had little knowledge about rheumatoid arthritis. In an industry that often prioritizes hiring individuals with vices rather than those suffering from illnesses they don’t understand, Kathleen found herself facing a lack of support.
“I was doing everything I could to recover. I couldn’t feel my wrists, and I could barely walk,” she shared in her book. “Back then, people in the film industry hired drunks and drug addicts, not those who were sick or struggling with diseases they didn’t comprehend. Things have changed today, with powerful pharmaceuticals available, but they come with the side effect of suppressing your immune system.”
Collaborations and Challenges
Kathleen Turner worked alongside various collaborators throughout her career in Hollywood. One collaboration that stood out was with the late Burt Reynolds. Turner, now 66, starred alongside Reynolds in the 1988 comedy Switching Channels. She recalls Reynolds being one of the most challenging co-stars she ever had.
Reynolds passed away in 2018 at the age of 82. Kathleen also shared that she initially rehearsed for the comedy film with Michael Caine, but he had other commitments and couldn’t continue. Eventually, Burt Reynolds stepped in and took on the role.
A Voice of Confidence
Known for her unmistakable voice, reminiscent of Lauren Bacall’s, Kathleen Turner had a self-assuredness that captivated the room. When Turner finally met Bacall, she confidently introduced herself, saying, “Hi, I’m your younger version.” Her prime was marked by confidence, and she admitted that any man who didn’t turn his head when she entered a room was probably gay.
A Journey of Love and Letting Go
In 1984, Kathleen Turner married real estate agent Jay Weiss, and together they have a daughter. However, in 2007, the couple decided to part ways and officially divorced.
Kathleen Turner’s story is one of resilience and transformation. Despite the challenges she faced, both physically and in her personal life, she continues to leave a lasting impact on Hollywood and inspire many with her strength and talent.
