Cate Blanchett, celebrated across decades of cinematic achievement, is contemplating a significant shift away from acting, according to recent statements. The acclaimed star, known for her captivating performances and two Academy Awards, revealed in an interview with *Radio Times* that she’s genuinely considering leaving behind her illustrious career.
The 55-year-old Australian actress, currently preparing for her debut radio drama appearance, expressed a desire to explore avenues beyond the entertainment industry.
“My family roll their eyes every time I say it, but I mean it. I am serious about giving up acting,” she stated, acknowledging that this isn’t a fleeting thought. Blanchett has previously alluded to such considerations, mentioning in a 2023 interview with *Vanity Fair* that the urge to step away arises “on a daily or weekly basis.”
She described her relationship with acting as a fluctuating “love affair,” requiring constant reinvigoration. Blanchett also spoke candidly about feeling uneasy with the trappings of celebrity:
“When you go on a talk show, or even here now, and then you see soundbites of things you’ve said, pulled out and italicised, they sound really loud. I’m not that person.”
She elaborated on her discomfort with being photographed, noting she feels most at ease when in motion after a lifetime spent navigating unfamiliar territory.
“I’ve always felt like I’m on the periphery of things, so I’m always surprised when I belong anywhere.”
Despite these sentiments regarding a potential exit from acting, Blanchett is currently embracing a new artistic challenge. She will star in *The Fever*, a 90-minute radio drama premiering this Saturday on BBC Radio 4. In the piece, she portrays an unnamed traveler struck by illness amidst the backdrop of civil unrest in a foreign land.
Blanchett expressed her fascination with the intimacy of the listening experience:
“I’m obsessed with the psychological space that is the interior of people’s cars.”
Her recent collaboration on Steven Soderbergh’s *Black Bag*, alongside Michael Fassbender, has been lauded as “one of the most acclaimed films” in her extensive body of work. Blanchett first achieved widespread recognition for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth I in 1998’s *Elizabeth*. She secured Academy Awards for her supporting role in *The Aviator* (2005) and as the lead in *Blue Jasmine* (2013). Throughout her career, films featuring Blanchett have collectively generated over £1 billion at the box office.
Her impressive achievements include:
- Two Academy Awards
- A pivotal role in *Elizabeth* (1998) which launched her international fame
- Box office success totaling over £1 billion across her filmography
