Anjelica Huston, an award-winning actress and Hollywood icon, has led a life as colorful and intriguing as any character she has portrayed on screen. Born into a world of glamour and artistry, Huston's early years were marked by a wild, country childhood in Ireland, where visits from her parents' famous friends were a common occurrence. Her life story is a tapestry woven with experiences that range from being photographed by the legendary war photographer Robert Capa as a toddler to forming friendships with literary giants like John Steinbeck, who once dressed up as Father Christmas for her.
Huston's journey through life and career reflects a unique blend of courage, independence, and artistic pursuit. She was among the first generation of young women who were granted the freedom to enjoy life to the fullest, a privilege she embraced wholeheartedly. Despite the challenges and pressures of the entertainment industry, Huston managed to navigate her career with determination and resilience. Unlike many of her contemporaries, she did not experience the dangers and intimidation that many young women in the industry faced.
“I think my reaction, which was healthy, was: ‘Well, watch me.’ I always came out swinging and I didn’t have to make excuses for myself.” – Anjelica Huston
Huston's illustrious career reached a pinnacle when she won an Oscar for her performance in Prizzi's Honor in 1986. Her talent and versatility have seen her collaborate with some of the most renowned directors in the film industry, including Francis Ford Coppola, Woody Allen, and Wes Anderson. Her circle of friends also reads like a who's who of cultural icons, with names like Andy Warhol and Jack Nicholson featuring prominently.
Despite her success in Hollywood, Huston has always maintained a connection to her roots and personal values. She owns a ranch in America where she lives surrounded by nature and animals, including seven donkeys and six horses. This ranch has become her refuge, especially after she fled her Los Angeles home due to wildfires. It is here that she continues to live a life of contentment and simplicity.
“I was in a car with three dogs, two cats, and the housekeeper, and he called and asked if I was all right, and if I had someplace I was staying.” – Anjelica Huston
Her relationship with Jack Nicholson is one that captures public interest due to its complexity and depth. Huston reflects on this past relationship with admiration rather than regret.
“I loved him. I think in the world that I was living in, it wasn’t disrespectful. It was how he was, and it wasn’t so personal.” – Anjelica Huston
Her ability to prioritize herself and her work has been a guiding principle throughout her career.
“It allowed me to prioritise myself – with work, with other lovers.” – Anjelica Huston
Huston's admiration for older actresses such as Edith Evans and Margaret Rutherford has also influenced her career choices. She has portrayed many regal roles, including Lady Tressilian in the BBC adaptation of Agatha Christie's Towards Zero. These roles have allowed her to channel her inspirations into her own acting style.
“It’s a great way to presage a character, an inbuilt warning,” – Anjelica Huston
In recent years, Huston has been candid about her views on the state of America.
“America, at the moment, is in a sad and sorry state.” – Anjelica Huston
Despite these candid remarks, she remains hopeful and committed to finding beauty and doing good in the world.
“Remember to admire what’s beautiful and be on the side of beauty and on the side of what you can do to make things better.” – Anjelica Huston