Ep 8. Debra Winger
- February 17, 2002
Debra Winger, the acclaimed actress and three-time Academy Award nominee, takes a seat on the famous red sofa in this episode of Inside the Actors Studio. Widely revered for her dynamic performances in films like Urban Cowboy, Terms of Endearment, and An Officer and a Gentleman, Winger shares candid insights into her craft, process, and personal life.
Host James Lipton engages Winger in a wide-ranging conversation, beginning with her childhood and early training at the Yoga Institute in Los Angeles. Winger reflects on her early years as an actress, recalling her breakthrough role in the film Slumber Party '57 and her subsequent work in television.
The conversation turns to Winger's collaborations with some of the industry's most acclaimed directors, including Bernardo Bertolucci and Jonathan Demme. Winger discusses her experiences working on films like The Sheltering Sky, Black Widow, and Rachel Getting Married, sharing anecdotes about her co-stars and the creative process behind these iconic films.
Throughout the interview, Winger speaks candidly about the challenges and triumphs of her career, including the physical and emotional toll of certain roles and the importance of maintaining authenticity as an actor. Lipton also probes Winger on her creative process, asking how she approaches character development and how she prepares for a new role.
As the conversation progresses, Winger opens up about her personal life, discussing her marriage to actor Timothy Hutton and her decision to step away from Hollywood for several years to focus on her family. She also reflects on her activism, including her involvement in the fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline and her work with refugees and immigrants.
Throughout the episode, Winger proves herself to be a thoughtful and engaging interviewee, offering insight into not only the craft of acting but also the politics and personal beliefs that inform her life and work. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the art and business of Hollywood, as well as those who appreciate the power of storytelling to inspire, provoke, and transform.
