In her latest film, Loren & Rose, the incomparable Jacqueline Bisset plays a once-celebrated actress who crosses paths with a young, ambitious filmmaker. Over the course of three intimate meals, their connection deepens, transforming them from strangers into cherished friends. "This is one of the best roles I've ever had in my life—and I've had quite a long and fulfilling career!" the British star, now 78, joked exclusively with Closer. This role highlights her enduring talent and ability to adapt, even after more than five decades in the industry.
It’s no secret that Jacqueline, who made her debut in 1965, has carved out an extraordinary career filled with versatility and longevity. While many actors her age lament the lack of meaningful roles, Jacqueline remains a shining example of how dedication and passion can lead to continuous success. In 2021 alone, she appeared in three projects, proving that incredible opportunities still exist for those willing to seek them out. "I keep moving forward, always on the lookout for new challenges," she explained. "I don’t choose roles based on money; I focus on the quality of the project and whether it excites me."
Why Loren & Rose Captured Her Heart
When asked what drew her to Loren & Rose, Jacqueline shared, "The character was beautifully crafted and brought to life through a meticulously written script. Kelly Blatz plays Loren, and I portray Rose, a woman with a reputation for being unpredictable and drawn to unconventional behavior. Despite initial hesitations, Loren insists on meeting me, and we form a unique mentorship. The script is heartfelt, and the chemistry between us is palpable. It’s one of those rare projects that feels like a gift."
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Learning from Life's Mentors
While Jacqueline hasn’t had a traditional mentor in the industry, she credits her parents for instilling valuable lessons. "They gave me solid advice, though I didn’t always follow it," she admitted with a laugh. "Their guidance grounded me and helped me avoid many pitfalls in Hollywood. My father’s most impactful lesson was, 'If you take an interest in people, you’ll always have friends.' That’s something I’ve carried with me throughout my life."
Words of Wisdom from Her Mother
Reflecting on her childhood, Jacqueline recalled her mother's quirky yet profound advice. "We lived in a 450-year-old thatched cottage, and creatures like spiders and mice would often visit. My mom would say, 'Leave them alone—they live here too.' At first, I thought she was crazy, but now I see the beauty and depth in her perspective. It’s a reminder to coexist peacefully with the world around us."
Supportive but Candid Parents
Although Jacqueline’s parents weren’t initially enthusiastic about her acting career, they supported her dreams. "My father joked that if I became an actress, I had to promise not to bore him with acting stories," she recalled. "He believed reading widely would prevent me from becoming one of those narrow-minded people. I’ve embraced that philosophy, though I still skip the sports page!"
Breaking Through in Hollywood
Jacqueline’s big break came when she landed a role in the 1968 film The Detective, starring Frank Sinatra. "Replacing Mia Farrow was a publicity boon, but my true breakthrough was working with François Truffaut on Day for Night. It won an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film, and it was a pivotal moment in my career," she explained.
Working with Legends: Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin
Recalling her time with Sinatra, Jacqueline described him as both intimidating and incredibly kind. "He was protective of me, calling me 'The Kid' and patiently guiding me despite my inexperience. His reputation for toughness was exaggerated; he couldn’t have been more gracious." As for Dean Martin, she said, "He was pure fun. His set was filled with laughter, while Burt Lancaster’s side was serious business. Dean kept us entertained with his jokes and his signature apple juice routine."
Life Beyond the Spotlight
Despite her illustrious career, Jacqueline has chosen not to marry. "Balancing work and personal life can be challenging," she admitted. "When I’m working, I need to focus entirely on the project. People waiting for me after a long day can feel burdensome, and I’d rather go to bed early. Filmmaking demands your full attention, and you can’t compromise that."
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Choosing Quality Over Quantity
Today, Jacqueline is selective about her roles. "I’ve turned down lucrative offers for projects that didn’t excite me. Often, the more money involved, the less satisfying the work turns out to be. Independent films may not pay much, but they offer artistic fulfillment and growth. If you want to challenge yourself, you have to pursue the best opportunities available."
