When Mimi Rogers was growing up, she didn’t dream of becoming an actress. In fact, she had her sights set on science. “I was this little geology nerd who collected rocks and experimented with sedimentary and metamorphic rocks,” she shares with Closer. “At one point, I thought I’d become a geologist or an astronomer. But life has a way of taking unexpected turns, and here I am—an actress!”
Fast forward to today, and Mimi, now 66, has carved out an impressive career in Hollywood. She made her television debut in 1981 with a four-episode arc on the first season of Hill Street Blues, and she hasn’t slowed down since. Her filmography boasts iconic roles in movies like Someone to Watch Over Me, The Rapture, Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery, and The Mirror Has Two Faces. Reflecting on her career, she says, “I’m incredibly proud that I’ve managed to keep this career alive for such a long time. It’s always challenging, fun, and growing, which keeps me engaged and excited.” Mimi currently stars in Bosch: Legacy, streaming on Amazon’s Freevee.
Early Days in Film: Someone to Watch Over Me
What was it like working on Someone to Watch Over Me, one of your first big films?
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“That experience was nothing short of amazing. I got to work with Ridley Scott, a true visionary, and Tom Berenger, fresh off Platoon. It was hard work, especially since we filmed a lot of night scenes on the streets of Manhattan in January. Tom and I were practically freezing our lips shut, but it was such a classic, romantic, and classy movie. It felt like stepping into a timeless Hollywood story.”
Working with Legends: The Mirror Has Two Faces
You also worked with two Hollywood legends, Lauren Bacall and Barbra Streisand, on The Mirror Has Two Faces.
“Oh, that was another incredible experience. I was lucky to have Lauren Bacall as my on-screen mom and Barbra Streisand as my sister. And let’s not forget Jeff Bridges and Pierce Brosnan! I felt like I’d died and gone to actor heaven. It was such a dream come true.”
What was it like working with Lauren and Barbra?
“They were both fantastic. Lauren, who preferred to be called Betty, was down-to-earth and always ready for anything. Barbra and I had fantastic chemistry, and it was thrilling to work with her as a director. She’s incredibly clear about her vision and has impeccable comedic timing. I just adore her; she’s a force of nature.”
Comedy and Adventure: Austin Powers
Was filming Austin Powers as much fun as it looked?
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“Absolutely! My dear friend Suzanne Todd produced that movie. It started as a low-budget project that no one expected to become a phenomenon. Mike Myers, the comedic genius behind it, was in a bit of a slump at the time, so this wasn’t supposed to be a big hit. Suzanne asked me to join as a favor, and when I read the script, I thought it was one of the funniest things I’d ever seen. We had so much fun on set, but I never imagined it would become the massive success it did.”
New Adventures: Bosch: Legacy
Tell us about your role in Bosch: Legacy. How does it differ from your previous work on Bosch?
“One of the biggest changes is that Bosch: Legacy is more of a three-hander. Harry Bosch, his daughter Maddie, and my character, Honey Chandler, are the main leads. This gives my character more depth and allows us to explore her life and issues. We delve into the aftermath of what happened in the last season of Bosch, including the assassination attempt on Honey. It’s an exciting continuation of her story.”
What’s next for Bosch: Legacy?
“We’re thrilled to announce that we’ve already been picked up for a second season! So, we’ll be back at work in a few months. It’s a great opportunity to keep building on this incredible story.”
What do you love most about being your age now?
“Honestly, I think it’s the freedom that comes with not caring too much about trivial things. At this stage, I feel like I have a wealth of experience to draw from, whether it’s with my kids or friends. I’ve made every mistake in the book, so I can offer advice and hopefully help others avoid those pitfalls. It’s rewarding to pass on what I’ve learned.”
Did either of your children follow you into the entertainment industry?
“Not exactly, but my daughter Lucy works for Amazon Studios, which is always my joke on Bosch—we all work for her! I’m incredibly proud of both my kids. Lucy is 27, and our son Charlie is about to turn 21. My husband and I feel we’ve done a good job raising them.”
Life Lessons and Reflections
What’s the secret to your long-lasting marriage to Chris?
“It’s all about being great friends and accepting each other as we are. In a relationship, if you’re always thinking, ‘It would be perfect if only these three things changed,’ you’re setting yourself up for trouble. People don’t always change, and sometimes they do. At the end of the day, you have to genuinely like each other and enjoy each other’s company.”
How do you maintain your health?
“I eat pretty healthy and love cooking at home. I focus on using fresh, high-quality ingredients, embracing that farm-to-table lifestyle. I also exercise consistently, though not excessively. Staying active has always been a part of my life.”
What role does spirituality play in your life?
“I’m not tied to any organized religion, but I consider myself spiritual. I believe strongly in the idea that you get out of life what you put into it. Everything is interconnected. For instance, I never felt entitled to the rebirth of Bosch, but I’m deeply grateful for it. It’s been a blessing, and I approach it with gratitude every day.”
Is there anything you know now that you wish you’d known earlier?
“That everything will be okay. Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re bombarded with news and challenges. But I’ve learned to trust that things will work out. It’s a comforting thought.”
