Ten fun facts about Kathleen Turner

1. Iconic Hollywood Actress Kathleen Turner

Kathleen Turner was a Hollywood icon in the 1980s, renowned for her captivating performances as a femme fatale. Her sultry voice and captivating presence made her a star in films such as Body Heat, Romancing the Stone, and Prizzi's Honor, where she earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Her career has spanned over four decades, and she continues to be a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

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2. Kathleen Turner's Career Beginnings

Kathleen Turner's career began with small roles in off-Broadway productions and TV soap operas, but it wasn't until her 1981 thriller "Body Heat" that she truly made her mark on the movie scene. Her performance in the film was highly acclaimed, and it launched her into a successful career in Hollywood.

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3. Kathleen Turner's Unique Upbringing Led to Her Success as an Actress

Kathleen Turner's upbringing was truly unique; as the daughter of an American ambassador, she had the opportunity to travel the world from a young age. This experience of different cultures and customs undoubtedly contributed to her versatility as an actress, allowing her to bring a wide range of characters to life on the big screen.

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4. From England to Stardom

Kathleen Turner's love of acting was ignited during her time in England, where she was mesmerized by the performances of Christopher Plummer, Diana Rigg, and Angela Lansbury. She made it a point to visit the theatre every week to watch them in action, and it was then that she realized her own passion for the craft.

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5. Kathleen Turner Honored with "Woman of the Year Award"

Kathleen Turner was honored with the prestigious "Woman of the Year Award" from Hasty Pudding Theatricals in 1989. This award is given annually to a female performer who has made a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Turner, who has starred in numerous films such as Romancing the Stone, The War of the Roses, and Peggy Sue Got Married, is a celebrated actress who has been nominated for two Golden Globe Awards and two Emmy Awards. Her work has been recognized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, and the Screen Actors Guild.

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6. an action star in her own right

Kathleen Turner was an action star in her own right, performing her own stunts in some of her most iconic films. In 1984's "Romancing the Stone", 1991's "V.I. Warshawski" and 1993's "Undercover Blues", Turner showed her fearlessness and strength, performing stunts such as high falls, car chases and fight scenes. Her commitment to her craft and her willingness to take risks made her a beloved star in the action genre.

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7. Highly Acclaimed Actress

Kathleen Turner is a highly acclaimed actress, having been awarded two Lifetime Achievement Awards in recognition of her talent. In 2004, she was honored at the Savannah Film and Video Festival, and three years later, in 2007, she was presented with the same award at the Provincetown International Film Festival. Her impressive career has been celebrated with these awards, and she continues to be a celebrated figure in the entertainment industry.

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8. Kathleen Turner's father held in Japanese captivity

Kathleen Turner's father, a veteran of World War II, was tragically taken prisoner by the Japanese and held in captivity for four long years. During this time, he was subjected to inhumane conditions and deprived of basic necessities. Despite the hardships he endured, he was eventually released and reunited with his family. This experience had a profound impact on Kathleen Turner and her family, and it is something that she has never forgotten.

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9. Kathleen Turner's voice helped make Jessica Rabbit a hit

Kathleen Turner famously provided the voice-over for the iconic character Jessica Rabbit in the 1988 film "Who Framed Roger Rabbit". Although she was not credited in the film, her performance was integral to the character's success. Amy Irving provided the singing voice for Jessica Rabbit, while Turner provided the speaking voice.

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10. A Hollywood Legend Returns to Acting

Kathleen Turner was once a talented gymnast, renowned for her ability to perform her own stunts in movies. However, in the 1990s, her career took a turn when she was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints. This debilitating condition forced her to step away from the Hollywood A-list, but she has since made a comeback with a number of acclaimed roles in both film and television.

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