Ep 1. Lee Grant
Lee Grant is the guest on the first episode of season 2 of Inside the Actors Studio. Grant is a legendary actress, director, and writer who has appeared in over 70 films and TV shows over her six-decade-long career. She was also a pioneer for women in Hollywood, as she faced blacklisting during the McCarthy era and fought against gender discrimination in the industry.
In this episode, host James Lipton welcomes Grant to the stage to discuss her life and career. They begin by delving into the actress's childhood in New York City, where she was born as Lyova Haskell Rosenthal. Lipton questions Grant about her early years and her first experiences with acting, which she describes as being "a way of escaping the pain and anxiety" of her youth.
The conversation then shifts to Grant's early days as an actress, when she was just starting out in the industry. She talks about her first big break, starring in the Broadway production of Detective Story, and how it opened doors for her in Hollywood. Grant discusses the challenges she faced as a young actress, including the pressure to conform to Hollywood's beauty standards and the rampant sexism in the industry.
Lipton then asks Grant about her experience during the McCarthy era, when she was blacklisted for her political views and association with leftist organizations. Grant is candid about the effect it had on her career and personal life, discussing the fear and paranoia that gripped the industry as a result of the anti-communist witch hunts.
Despite these setbacks, Grant went on to have a successful career in Hollywood. She discusses some of her most iconic roles, including her Academy Award-nominated performance in the film The Landlord and her scene-stealing turn in the movie Shampoo.
In addition to her acting work, Grant also directed several films and TV shows, including a documentary about the Holocaust survivor community. She talks about her decision to step behind the camera and the challenges she faced as a female director in a male-dominated industry.
Throughout the episode, Grant is insightful and introspective, reflecting on her life and career with honesty and humor. She shares personal anecdotes about working with some of Hollywood's biggest names, including Warren Beatty, Hal Ashby, and Sidney Poitier.
As the conversation draws to a close, Lipton asks Grant his signature question: What is your favorite curse word? Grant's unexpected answer is met with laughter and applause from the audience, capping off an engaging and illuminating episode of Inside the Actors Studio.
