Phoebe Cates is a name that still sparks recognition, especially for fans of 1980s cinema. Best known for her roles in films like Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Gremlins, Cates became one of the most iconic actresses of her era. Though she stepped away from the limelight years ago, her impact on Hollywood endures, and her net worth continues to reflect her success in both acting and business.
In recent years, Phoebe Cates has focused on her personal life and business ventures, enjoying a quieter existence away from the bustling film industry. Despite her retreat from acting, many still remember her for her unforgettable performances, particularly during the 1980s.
Key Takeaways
- Phoebe Cates is best known for her roles in Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Gremlins.
- After a successful Hollywood career, she retired to focus on her family and boutique business.
- She is married to actor Kevin Kline and has two children.
- Phoebe Cates has an estimated net worth of $35 million as of 2024.
Phoebe Cates’ Early Rise to Fame
Phoebe Belle Cates was born on July 16, 1963, in New York City. She began her career as a model, landing several magazine covers at a young age. However, it was her transition to acting in the early 1980s that cemented her status as a Hollywood star. Her breakout role came in the classic teen comedy Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982), where she played the iconic character Linda Barrett. The film gained widespread popularity and became a defining movie for a generation.
Phoebe Cates Fast Times at Ridgemont High
One of the most memorable moments of Cates’ career occurred in Fast Times at Ridgemont High. In the film, Cates portrayed Linda Barrett, a confident and bold teen. One scene, where she emerges from a pool in a red bikini, became a hallmark of 80s pop culture. The film’s success significantly boosted Cates’ career and made her a household name.
Transition to Other Major Roles and Personal Life
After Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Phoebe Cates starred in other significant films, including Gremlins (1984) and Drop Dead Fred (1991). Her roles often balanced comedy with relatable charm, making her one of the most sought-after actresses during that decade. Cates also took on roles in films like Paradise (1982), a film that included controversial scenes, which Cates later expressed regret over.
Phoebe Cates Paradise
In Paradise, released the same year as Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Phoebe Cates took on a more mature role. The movie, a romantic adventure set in the desert, contained scenes of nudity that garnered significant attention. However, Cates has since distanced herself from the film, admitting that she felt uncomfortable with parts of the production.
Life with Kevin Kline and Retreat from Acting
In 1989, Phoebe Cates married actor Kevin Kline, after meeting him during auditions for The Big Chill. The couple has enjoyed a long-lasting marriage and raised two children, Owen and Greta Kline. Soon after their marriage, Cates made the decision to step away from her acting career to focus on her family life, with only a brief return to the screen in 2001 for The Anniversary Party.
Phoebe Cates Now
Today, Phoebe Cates leads a private life away from the Hollywood spotlight. She has shifted her focus to managing her boutique, Blue Tree, located in New York City. Though she has not been involved in major film projects since 2001, her impact on the film industry and pop culture remains significant.
Phoebe Cates’ Iconic Films and Net Worth
Throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, Cates appeared in several major films that remain beloved by fans. Apart from her role in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, she starred in the 1984 hit Gremlins, another box office success. Her filmography also includes Princess Caraboo (1994), which was one of her final movie roles before her retirement.
Phoebe Cates Movies
Cates’ film career may have been relatively short, but it was filled with memorable performances. Some of her key films include:
- Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)
- Gremlins (1984)
- Drop Dead Fred (1991)
- Princess Caraboo (1994)
Phoebe Cates Net Worth
As of 2024, Phoebe Cates has an estimated net worth of $35 million. Much of her wealth comes from her acting career, but she has also benefited from her successful boutique business, Blue Tree. Her lasting fame and careful business investments have allowed her to maintain a comfortable lifestyle, even in her retirement from acting.
A Snapshot of Phoebe Cates’ Life
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Phoebe Belle Cates Kline |
| Born | July 16, 1963, New York City, USA |
| Famous for | Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Gremlins |
| Net Worth (2024) | Estimated $35 million |
| Spouse | Kevin Kline (m. 1989) |
| Children | Owen Kline, Greta Kline |
| Business | Owner of Blue Tree Boutique in New York |
| Last Major Film Role | The Anniversary Party (2001) |
| Current Status | Retired from acting, managing boutique |
FAQs
What is Phoebe Cates famous for?
Phoebe Cates is best known for her roles in Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Gremlins, both of which were huge hits in the 1980s.
Is Phoebe Cates still acting?
No, Phoebe Cates has largely retired from acting. She left Hollywood to focus on her family and now runs a boutique in New York City.
How old is Phoebe Cates in 2024?
As of 2024, Phoebe Cates is 61 years old, having been born on July 16, 1963.
What is Phoebe Cates’ net worth?
Phoebe Cates’ net worth is estimated to be around $35 million as of 2024, thanks to her successful acting career and her boutique business.
Who is Phoebe Cates’ husband?
Phoebe Cates has been married to actor Kevin Kline since 1989. The couple has two children together, Owen and Greta Kline.
Why did Phoebe Cates leave acting?
Phoebe Cates stepped away from acting after marrying Kevin Kline to focus on raising their children and later, on running her business.