{"id":4600,"date":"2025-08-17T15:30:22","date_gmt":"2025-08-17T14:30:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/?p=4600"},"modified":"2025-08-17T15:30:24","modified_gmt":"2025-08-17T14:30:24","slug":"this-80s-tv-icon-found-love-with-a-hollywood-star-16-years-her-senior-left-acting-to-raise-their-children","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/?p=4600","title":{"rendered":"This 80s TV Icon Found Love with a Hollywood Star 16 Years Her Senior & Left Acting to Raise Their Children"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

She was among Hollywood\u2019s rising stars, captivating audiences in films that became cultural landmarks. Yet, when this actress seemed poised for even greater success, she made an unexpected choice. Her decision to step away from the spotlight was rooted in a love story that began in the theater and ultimately reshaped her life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This actress became a household name in the 1980s, starring in a string of hits that defined the era. From romantic comedies to offbeat cult classics, her performances made her one of Hollywood\u2019s most recognizable faces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The actress at the Beaumont Modeling Agency Anniversary Party on July 31, 1979, in New York City | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, her aspirations extended beyond the confines of the film industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The actress posing at Beaumont Modeling Agency Anniversary Party on July 31, 1979 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the late \u201980s, she made headlines for her marriage to a well-established actor, Kevin Kline, who was 16 years her senior and a confirmed bachelor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"A<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

A portrait of the actress, circa 1980s | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The pair went on to build a life that defied the typical Hollywood narrative, prioritizing family and a dedication to staying grounded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The former actress and a co-star pictured during a scene from the film \u201cGremlins,\u201d circa 1984 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Chance Meeting That Sparked a Connection<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The pair\u2019s paths first crossed in 1982 during a read-through for \u201cThe Big Chill.\u201d Although she did not end up in the film, the brief encounter left an impression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The actress posing, circa 1980 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Two years later, their lives intersected again at New York\u2019s Public Theater.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The actress smiling somewhere in the United States, circa 1980s | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At the time, she was fresh off the success of \u201cGremlins\u201d and rehearsing a Russian play, while he was immersed in his role for Shakespeare\u2019s \u201cHenry V.\u201d Kline, a classically trained actor with two Tony Awards to his name, later reflected on their early encounters with characteristic humor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Kevin<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Kevin Kline photographed in 1978 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhen I first met [her], I remember thinking, \u2018She\u2019s too happy to be with me,\u2019\u201d he said, highlighting her spirited personality, which stood in contrast to his more introspective nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Willie<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Willie Aames and the actress, circa 1981 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite their different temperaments, their shared passion for the arts set the stage for what would become a lifelong partnership.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The couple at the Governor\u2019s Ball party after the 1989 Academy Awards on March 29, 1989 | Source: Greg in Hollywood (Greg Hernandez) CC BY-SA 2.0 Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Private Wedding and a Lifelong Partnership<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

By March 1989, the bond they had nurtured over several years culminated in an intimate wedding ceremony held in New York City. At just 25 years old, the actress married Kline, who was 41 at the time and already a renowned figure in theater and film.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"An<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

An outdoor portrait of the actress, 1982 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The couple\u2019s understated celebration reflected their preference for privacy, with only close family and friends in attendance to witness their union. Soon after their marriage, they began planning for a family, welcoming their son, Owen, in 1991 and their daughter, Greta, a few years later in 1994.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Greta,<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Greta, the actress, Kevin, and Owen Kline at the New York Film Festival premiere of \u201cThe Squid and the Whale\u201d on September 26, 2005 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To ensure a stable upbringing for their children, they established a system that prioritized family life over their demanding careers. \u201cWe have agreed to alternate so that we\u2019re never working at the same time,\u201d Kline explained. But even when it was her turn to work, his wife would choose to stay home with their children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reflecting on their early days as a married couple, Kline emphasized the importance of their commitment to family, stating, \u201cWe\u2019re both sensible, and we don\u2019t separate for long periods of time. We take care of the marriage.\u201d This decision is what set the stage for their family-centered existence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/if-cdn.com\/pUzqp8x?_showcaption=false&app=1\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Retiring for Family: Her Life-Altering Decision<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

At the peak of her career, the actress made a choice that surprised both fans and industry insiders\u2014she stepped away from the spotlight entirely. After welcoming her two children, she decided to prioritize her role as a mother over her Hollywood ambitions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The former actress at Tavern on the Green for the Fresh Air Fund\u2019s Salute to American Heroes on June 5, 1997 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Her husband has often spoken with admiration about her decision, noting that it wasn\u2019t driven by necessity but by her genuine dedication to their family. \u201cThat was one of the many things I loved about her,\u201d he shared. \u201cShe loved acting while she was doing it, but she was not driven by it, as I had been.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The former actress, circa 2006 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rather than juggle a demanding career alongside family life, she chose to step back entirely, ensuring her children grew up in a stable and nurturing environment. She managed the household without outside help, apart from occasional assistance with cleaning, and made it a point to cook dinner for the family every night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The former actress at the 81st annual Academy Awards on September 23, 2009 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reflecting on this, she once said, \u201cSome people have trouble with that, but I love it. I do it all.\u201d Her decision not only allowed their family to flourish but also reinforced the strong foundation of their marriage, which continued to thrive under the values of compromise and shared priorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The former actress and Kevin Kline at the 81st annual Academy Awards at the Kodak Theatre on on September 23, 2009 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Raising Remarkable Children in an Artistic Household<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The decision to prioritize family created a stable and nurturing environment for Owen and Greta, who grew up surrounded by creativity and support. Both followed their passions in the arts, reflecting their upbringing in an intellectually and artistically rich household.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Kevin<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Kevin Kline, his wife , and their kids, Greta and Owen, at the Supper Club on September 25, 2003 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Owen made a name for himself as a filmmaker and actor. He gained early recognition for his performance in \u201cThe Squid and the Whale\u201d (2005), a critically acclaimed drama in which he portrayed a teenager navigating the complexities of family life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The former actress at the 71st Annual Tony Awards on June 11, 2017, in New York City | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite the accolades, Owen chose to shift his focus to directing, later releasing his debut feature film, \u201cFunny Pages,\u201d in 2022. Reflecting on his parents\u2019 influence, he described their steadfast encouragement during his creative journey. \u201cThey wanted so badly for me to figure out a way to make my film,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Greta channeled her artistic talents into music. Performing under the name Frankie Cosmos, she became a celebrated figure in the indie music scene, known for her introspective lyrics and minimalist sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Greta\u2019s career also reflected the support of her parents, who frequently attended her performances and encouraged her creative endeavors. Their steady presence and unyielding support allowed the siblings to flourish on their own terms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Life Away from the Limelight<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

For over three decades, Phoebe Cates and Kline have maintained a life focused on family and grounded in simplicity. Now in their 35th year of marriage, the couple continues to prioritize their relationship and their children over the glitz of Hollywood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Phoebe<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Phoebe Cates and Kevin Kline at Madison Square Garden on January 3, 2013 in New York City | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIf your marriage lasts more than six months, you\u2019re already in the Guinness Book of World Records, if you\u2019re a Hollywood marriage,\u201d Kline joked during a 2024 interview. He went on to say that he doesn\u2019t consider their relationship a \u201cHollywood marriage\u201d in either a literal or figurative sense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Kevin<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Kevin Kline and Phoebe Cates at Madison Square Garden on January 13, 2014, in New York City | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The actor also explained that they\u2019ve deliberately lived outside Hollywood and maintained a low-profile lifestyle. They have lived on Manhattan\u2019s Upper East Side for most of their marriage, choosing a quieter existence far removed from the industry\u2019s traditional hotspots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Phoebe<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Phoebe Cates and Kevin Kline at Radio City Music Hall on June 11, 2017, in New York City | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The family\u2019s Manhattan home has been the foundation of a stable and nurturing environment for their now-grown children. Weekly family dinners were a cherished tradition, even as the children grew older and pursued their careers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Phoebe<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Phoebe Cates and Kevin Kline at the Tony Awards | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kline reflected on their bond, saying, \u201cWe have dinner all together once a week at least. The kids haven\u2019t banished us from their lives.\u201d He frequently attends Greta\u2019s music performances, sometimes even participating in her shows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Phoebe<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Phoebe Cates and Kevin Kline at Radio City Music Hall on June 11, 2017, in New York City | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beyond family life, Cates found fulfillment in a new creative venture. In 2005, she opened Blue Tree, a boutique shop in Manhattan\u2019s Carnegie Hill neighborhood. Cates described her vision for the store as \u201ca general store but according to me,\u201d curating an eclectic mix of women\u2019s clothing, jewelry, home goods, and unique gifts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Phoebe<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Phoebe Cates\u2019 \u201cBlue Tree\u201d on Madison Avenue, circa 2006 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The shop became a reflection of her creative energy, attracting a loyal following both locally and internationally. While she isn\u2019t in the industry as much, Cates is still remembered for her work. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic Jennifer Aniston channeled an old character of Cates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Phoebe<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Phoebe Cates posing alone at the Tony Awards | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During the \u201cDane Cook Presents Feelin\u2019 A-Live: Fast Times at Ridgemont High\u201d table read for CORE, celebrities joined comedian Dane Cook to reenact the 1982 classic virtually. Aniston got to play Cates character, popular girl Linda Barrett.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Jennifer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Jennifer Aniston as Phoebe Cates\u2019 character Linda Barrett during \u2018Dane Cook Presents Feelin\u2019 A-Live: Fast Times at Ridgemont High\u2019 on September 18, 2020 | Source: YouTube\/CORE Response<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At the start of her scene, she quickly removed her denim jacket to reveal a red bikini over a white tank top. The bikini looked like the one that Cates wore in the original movie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even though Cates and Kline occasionally appear at premieres, award shows, and events like basketball games, the couple remains committed to their privacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Phoebe<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Phoebe Cates and Kevin Kline at the Tony Awards on June 11, 2017, in New York City | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Their enduring relationship and thoughtful choices have allowed them to build a life centered on their shared values rather than the pressures of fame.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

She was among Hollywood\u2019s rising stars, captivating audiences in films that became cultural landmarks. Yet, when this actress seemed poised for even greater success, she […]<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":4601,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4600","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorised"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4600","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=4600"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4600\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4602,"href":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4600\/revisions\/4602"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/4601"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=4600"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=4600"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=4600"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}