Phoebe Cates, the iconic actress known for her roles in films like “Gremlins” and “Drop Dead Fred,” had a remarkable journey in the entertainment industry. However, over 20 years ago, she decided to leave Hollywood behind and pursue something she truly loves – working 9 to 5 in her own business.
A Born Performer
Phoebe Belle Cates was born on July 16, 1963, in the vibrant city of New York. Coming from a family with a strong connection to the world of entertainment, it seemed almost inevitable that Phoebe would find her way onto the stage. Her father was a producer-director, her uncle served as the president of the Director’s Guild, and even her siblings were involved in showbiz.
At a young age, Phoebe attended private schools and studied ballet at Julliard. She had dreams of a dancing career, but unfortunately, a knee injury forced her to abandon that path. Undeterred, she shifted gears and began modeling at the age of 14, which brought her considerable success. However, Phoebe soon realized that modeling wasn’t her true passion, stating, “It was just the same thing, over and over. After a while, I did it solely for the money.”
A New Chapter in Acting
Phoebe’s life took an exciting turn when she met her film agent at a party at the legendary Studio 54 in New York. Recognizing her talent and potential, she then trained with renowned acting coach Robert Ravan, founder of The Actors’ Circle. Phoebe saw acting as an opportunity to avoid college and jumpstart her career, stating, “I just knew that I didn’t want to go to college. And that it would be a great way to get out of college if I could get a couple of movies or something. Seriously. It’s true.”
Continuing her acting education with Alice Spivack of the H.B. Studios, Phoebe made her acting debut in the film “Paradise” in 1982, quickly followed by her appearance in “Experienced.” However, it was her role in the 1982 hit “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” that propelled her to stardom, thanks to the now-iconic swimming pool scene that left teenage hearts racing.
Life Beyond Hollywood
Despite her success in the film industry, Phoebe made the surprising decision to step away from acting after starting a family with her husband, renowned theater actor Kevin Kline. The couple, who have been happily married for 27 years, made a conscious effort to prioritize their marriage and their children.
Focusing on being a devoted mother, Phoebe and Kevin made a pact to alternate their acting jobs to ensure that their children always had a parent around. Although Phoebe still occasionally takes on acting projects, she gradually transitioned into a new role – that of a successful shopkeeper.
Blue Tree: A Passion Project
In 2005, Phoebe opened Blue Tree, a charming store located just blocks away from the famous Carnegie Hall in New York City. This store is a reflection of Phoebe’s personal style and taste, offering a carefully curated selection of fragrances, clothing, and gifts. Phoebe takes pride in working hands-on in the store, constantly searching for new products to sell and interacting with customers.
Located at 1283 Madison Avenue on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Blue Tree has become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike. Phoebe’s passion for creating a unique shopping experience is evident in every detail of the store. To this day, she continues to inspire us all with her drive, creativity, and dedication to her family and business.
Phoebe Cates may have transitioned from Hollywood stardom to successful shopkeeper, but her impact on pop culture will never be forgotten. Her memorable roles in iconic films and her commitment to her loved ones serve as a reminder that pursuing your passions and cherishing the things that matter most can lead to a truly fulfilling life.
