Sigourney Weaver, the iconic actress known for her roles in 'Avatar' and 'Alien,' has revealed a fascinating and emotional journey that began with a warning from her mother, Elizabeth Inglis. Inglis, a successful British actress in her own right, had a unique perspective on the entertainment industry, and her words carried a weight that Weaver couldn't ignore.
Inglis had a thriving stage career in the 1930s, appearing in notable films like Alfred Hitchcock's 'The 39 Steps' and 'The Letter' directed by William Wyler. Despite her success, she urged her daughter to steer clear of Hollywood, believing it would be too harsh for Weaver's sensitive nature.
"Dear, they will eat you alive!" Weaver recalled her mother's warning.
But Weaver, determined and resilient, chose a different path. She enrolled in the Yale School of Drama, where she faced more challenges. Her professors were less than encouraging, telling her she had no talent and would never make it. It was a tough blow, and Weaver admitted to having a nervous breakdown, but she persevered.
And persevere she did! Weaver's breakthrough came in 1979 when she starred as Ellen Ripley in Ridley Scott's 'Alien.' The film was a massive hit, and Weaver's performance as Ripley solidified her place in Hollywood. She reprised her role in the 'Alien' sequels, earning an Oscar nomination for 'Aliens.'
But even with her success, Weaver's relationship with her mother remained complex. Inglis, who had given up her own acting career to focus on her family, struggled with her daughter's achievements. She retired in the early 1940s after marrying Weaver's father, television executive Sylvester "Pat" Weaver Jr., a prominent industry figure known for creating 'The Today Show' and 'The Tonight Show.'
"It was not great for her to give up acting, but in those days, women did that—especially if they were married to someone like my father, who was running a whole world," Weaver explained.
Despite the challenges, Weaver continued to pursue her dreams, starring in numerous films, television shows, and stage productions. She even reunited with 'Alien' director James Cameron for the 'Avatar' franchise, playing Dr. Grace Augustine in the first film and returning as Kiri, a Na'vi girl, in the sequel.
But Weaver's journey with her mother wasn't without its heartaches. Inglis made a remark about Weaver's appearance when she was just eight, saying she was "plain." It was a comment that stuck with Weaver, affecting her self-confidence for years.
"It took me a long time to realize I was prettier than plain," Weaver shared, adding that therapy helped her overcome these insecurities.
Weaver also revealed that Inglis kept her past as an actress mostly a secret, and Weaver only discovered her mother's success years after her death.
"I would have loved to have talked with her about it, but she was so private," Weaver said.
Despite the complexities, Weaver and her mother grew closer in Inglis' later years. Weaver was by her mother's side when she passed away at 94, and she cherished the time they spent together.
"She had really lived her life. I miss her but I feel she is still with me," Weaver said, reflecting on their relationship.
This story is a reminder that even the most successful people face challenges and complexities, especially when it comes to family dynamics. It's a testament to Weaver's resilience and strength that she not only pursued her dreams but also found a way to heal and grow from her experiences.
