As a long-time fan, I‘m thrilled to provide an in-depth look at the life and career of the captivating Kim Cattrall.
Early Life and Path to Acting
Born in England in 1956, Cattrall moved with her family to Canada at a young age. She gravitated towards acting early on, making her stage debut at 11. After studying theater and landing her first film role, Cattrall‘s career took off in the late 1970s.
Some interesting facts about her early years:
- Grew up in Courtenay, British Columbia after her family immigrated to Canada.
- Took ballet, acting, and piano lessons as a child.
- Left high school at 16 to pursue acting full-time in New York.
- Studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in NYC.
Big Break on Television
Cattrall gained recognition on TV in the 1980s through lead roles on shows like The Manhunter, The Misadventures of Sheriff Lobo, and The Big Easy.
A few memorable TV highlights:
- First big role was as Officer Judy Hoffs on The Manhunter (1981-82).
- Played Joyce Davenport on 39 episodes of The Misadventures of Sheriff Lobo (1982-86).
- Portrayed rookie police officer Sgt. "Pepper" Anderson on The Big Easy (1996-97).
- Earned 4 Golden Globe nominations for Sex and the City role.
Acclaimed Film Performances
While conquering television, Cattrall also built up an impressive resume of scene-stealing film performances. Some of my personal favorites include:
- Porky‘s (1982) – As bad girl Babs.
- Police Academy (1984) – Unforgettable as cadet Karen Adams.
- Big Trouble in Little China (1986) – Stole scenes as the cunning Gracie Law.
- Mannequin (1987) – Played the sexy, vivacious Emmy.
- Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991) – Shined as Vulcan Lieutenant Valeris.
Golden Years on Sex and the City
Cattrall cemented her status as a Hollywood star playing Samantha Jones on Sex and the City from 1998-2004. Her portrayal of the confident publicist was truly iconic.
Some fun facts about Cattrall‘s SATC role:
- Was hesitant about playing Samantha at first. Now calls it "the role of a lifetime."
- Was the oldest of the 4 leading actresses at age 41 when the show started.
- Became synonymous with Samantha‘s signature catchphrase "I‘m a try-sexual. I‘ll try anything once."
- Won a Golden Globe and 5 Emmy nominations for the role.
Scene-Stealing Stage Presence
While dominating TV and film, Cattrall also shone brightly on stage with acclaimed Broadway performances:
- Made Broadway debut in 1980‘s Private Lives, winning Theatre World Award.
- Tony nomination for 1986‘s Wild Honey.
- Starred opposite Alan Rickman in 2002‘s Private Lives.
- Played Anton Chekhov‘s wife in 2009‘s Uncle Vanya.
Cattrall‘s extensive theater background allows her to command the stage with confidence and charisma.
Fun Facts About Kim Cattrall
- Has dual British-Canadian citizenship.
- Speaks German fluently after living there as a child.
- Is an avid animal rights activist, working with PETA.
- Has written two books on female sexuality and empowerment.
- Had a pet raccoon named Garbage when younger.
- Has been immortalized in wax at Madame Tussauds.
- Holds an Honorary Doctorate from Liverpool John Moores University.
What I Admire Most About Kim Cattrall
No matter the role, Kim Cattrall brings an undeniable magnetism and fire to the screen. Her willingness to take on provocative, feminist roles has broken barriers. She radiates confidence and never shies away from speaking her mind. To me, Kim Cattrall is the epitome of fearless. Her decades-long career continues going strong and I cannot wait to see what she does next!
