Let’s take a trip back to 1971, when Ellen Burstyn delivered a breathtaking performance in The Last Picture Show. In this film, she plays a wife who’s not exactly happy with life, married to the richest man in town, trying to steer her beautiful teenage daughter away from the pitfalls of adulthood. Her role was so powerful that it had everyone talking about the Oscars. But Ellen, now 91, tells Closer in an exclusive interview that her desire for the award felt overwhelming. “I found the amount of my wanting it just disgusting,” she admits. So, on the morning the nominations were announced, she decided to drive to the beach and spend the day there, deliberately staying away from any news. She wanted to distance herself from the intense longing she was feeling. It wasn’t until she returned home and found her apartment filled with flowers that she realized she’d been nominated. And that was just the beginning—Ellen would go on to win an Oscar for her role in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore. With a career spanning decades, she’s also been honored with Tony and Emmy awards, including a memorable role as Christopher Meloni’s mother, Bernadette, on Law & Order. “I’m most proud that I’m still working,” Ellen reflects. “That I’ve been able to sustain a career all these years.”

Ellen Burstyn has had a career that many can only dream of. Her talent has been recognized across the board, earning her accolades in theater, television, and film. But what makes her journey even more inspiring is her ability to stay grounded and passionate about her work, even after all these years. She credits her longevity to her love for acting and her determination to keep growing as an artist.

Childhood Dreams: What Did Ellen Burstyn Want to Be?

Growing up, Ellen had a pretty clear idea of what she wanted to do with her life. While she briefly entertained the thought of becoming a veterinarian, deep down, she always felt that she was destined to be an actress. “Whenever I got on stage in school, it felt like something I knew I could do,” she recalls. “It’s what came naturally to me.” Even as a child, Ellen had an innate sense of her calling, which is a testament to her self-awareness and determination. Acting wasn’t just a hobby for her—it was a passion that she pursued with unwavering dedication.

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Iconic Inspirations: Who Were Ellen's Favorite Actresses?

Ellen’s early influences were the glamorous screen legends of her time. She adored Betty Grable and June Haver, envisioning herself in sequined dresses and living a life of Hollywood glamour. These actresses were more than just role models—they were a source of inspiration that fueled Ellen’s dreams. Their performances and style left an indelible mark on her, shaping her own aspirations and approach to acting. It’s fascinating to see how these early influences continue to resonate in her career today.

Family Support: How Did Ellen's Loved Ones React to Her Aspirations?

When Ellen shared her dreams with her family, she didn’t exactly receive the encouragement she hoped for. Her mother’s response was blunt: “Oh, you’ve got pipe dreams in your head.” But despite this skepticism, Ellen remained undeterred. She knew deep down that acting was her destiny, and nothing could sway her from that path. Her unwavering belief in herself is a testament to her resilience and determination, qualities that have undoubtedly contributed to her success.

Breaking into Broadway: Ellen's Debut in 1957

Ellen’s journey to Broadway wasn’t exactly a traditional one. She started out as a model, doing commercials and summer stock productions. But her ambition was clear: she wanted to make it on Broadway. Determined to land an audition, she asked everyone she met for advice. Her persistence paid off when a secretary at a major theater agency mentioned that they were looking for an actress to play a model. Ellen auditioned and landed the lead role in a Broadway play. It was a remarkable achievement, but it wasn’t without its challenges. Many of her co-actors resented her lack of experience, but Ellen persevered, eventually learning the craft and earning their respect.

The Fast Track to Stardom: How Did Ellen Handle It?

While landing a lead role on Broadway so early in her career might seem like a dream come true, it wasn’t without its difficulties. Ellen found herself working alongside seasoned actors who weren’t exactly thrilled to be sharing the stage with someone who had no formal training or experience. The resentment was palpable, but Ellen didn’t let it discourage her. Instead, she used it as motivation to improve and prove herself. Over time, her talent and dedication won over even the toughest critics, paving the way for her future success.

Memories of Filming 'Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore'

Filming Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore was an unforgettable experience for Ellen. She describes it as an ideal situation where everyone worked together seamlessly. Her co-star Kris Kristofferson was making his film debut and needed a bit of encouragement, which Ellen was happy to provide. Meanwhile, Diane Ladd, a fellow Studio actress, brought her daughter Laura Dern to the set for a scene in the restaurant. It was Laura’s first film, and the entire experience was a harmonious blend of talent and camaraderie. Ellen cherishes the memories of that time, calling it a truly wonderful experience.

Favorite Costars: Who Stands Out in Ellen's Career?

Ellen has had the privilege of working with some of the most talented actors in the business. Two of her favorite collaborations were with Charles Grodin in the play Same Time, Next Year and Alan Alda in the film adaptation. She refers to them as “two brilliant husbands in two separate marriages,” highlighting their exceptional talent and professionalism. Both actors brought a unique energy to their roles, and Ellen treasures the memories of working with them. Their collaborations were not just professional but deeply personal, enriching her career and life in countless ways.

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Memorable Career Moments: Ellen's Impact on Others

One of the most poignant moments in Ellen’s career came when a young man wrote to her after seeing The Last Picture Show. He was struggling with suicidal thoughts and had decided to end his life that evening. However, after watching the film, he found solace in Ellen’s character. He realized that even though her character wasn’t happy, she was still getting through life. This realization gave him the strength to keep going, and he thanked Ellen for saving his life. Years later, during the Christmas season, Ellen visited an AIDS ward and encountered the same man. He recognized her immediately, bursting into tears as he thanked her once again. It was a deeply moving experience that underscored the profound impact movies can have on people’s lives.