Phoebe Cates is a familiar face to moviegoers, known for her roles in beloved films like “Gremlins” and “Drop Dead Fred.” However, what many may not know is that over 20 years ago, she made a bold decision to leave Hollywood and pursue something she truly loves – running her own business.
A Born Performer
Phoebe Belle Cates was born on July 16, 1963, in the bustling city of New York. From a young age, she attended prestigious private schools and studied ballet at Julliard. Showbiz was in her blood, with a father who worked as a producer-director and an uncle who held an esteemed position as president of the Director’s Guild. Even her siblings found their calling in the entertainment industry.
Initially, Phoebe aimed for a career in dancing, but a knee injury put an end to that dream. At the age of 14, she shifted gears and ventured into modeling, where she quickly gained success. Her face graced the cover of Seventeen magazine four times. However, modeling eventually lost its allure for Phoebe, who grew tired of the repetitive nature of the work. In her own words, “After a while, I did it solely for the money.”
A New Calling in Acting
Phoebe’s life took an exciting turn when she met her film agent at a party in the legendary Studio 54. This encounter led her to train with renowned acting coach Robert Ravan, founder of The Actors’ Circle in New York. Acting became Phoebe’s ticket to avoid college and kickstart her career, and she seized the opportunity.
Having honed her craft under the guidance of Alice Spivack of the H.B. Studios, Phoebe made her acting debut in 1982’s “Paradise,” followed swiftly by “Experienced.” However, it was her role in the now-iconic film “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” that propelled her to stardom. Teenage boys’ hearts raced during the unforgettable swimming pool scene, firmly etching Phoebe Cates into pop culture history.
Embracing Life Beyond Hollywood
Despite her success in the film industry, Phoebe surprised everyone by taking a step back from acting to focus on her family. She married acclaimed theater actor Kevin Kline, and the couple has enjoyed a blissful marriage of 27 years, with two children to their name.
Maintaining a lasting relationship requires effort, and Phoebe and Kevin have found their secret by prioritizing their marriage. As Kevin explained, “We take care of the marriage.” They made a pact to alternate their acting jobs, ensuring that at least one of them would always be present for their children.
Although Phoebe still occasionally takes on acting projects, her main focus shifted to a different passion – running her own shop. In 2005, she brought her vision to life with Blue Tree, a delightful store nestled near the famous Carnegie Hall in New York City. Phoebe personally curates a range of products, from fragrances to clothing and gifts, offering customers a unique and carefully selected shopping experience.
Located at 1283 Madison Avenue on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Phoebe’s store reflects her own style and taste. It has become a beloved destination, cherished by locals and visitors alike. Phoebe can often be found working hands-on, discovering new products and engaging with customers, filled with the same passion that fueled her acting career.
Phoebe Cates may have transitioned from the silver screen to a successful role as a shopkeeper, but her impact on pop culture remains indelible. From her captivating performances in iconic films to her unwavering dedication to her family and business, Phoebe continues to inspire us all.
