Breaking Every Rule In The Book: At 94, June Squibb Plays An Action Lead

June Louise Squibb was born on November 6, 1929, in Vandalia, Illinois. Her mother, JoyBelle, was a silent film pianist, and her father, Lewis, worked as an insurance agent. This artistic environment influenced Squibb's early interest in performing arts.

From Broadway To Films 

Squibb made her Broadway debut in 1959 with the musical Gypsy. Prior to this, she had already honed her craft at The Muny and HB Studio. Her move to Cleveland in 1951 to perform at the Cleveland Play House saw her in productions like The Play's the Thing and Antigone. These roles showcased her versatility and set the stage for her Broadway entry.

In 1990, Squibb made her film debut in Woody Allen's romantic comedy Alice. This role marked the beginning of her extensive film career, characterized by supporting roles in notable films throughout the 1990s, including The Age of Innocence (1993), In & Out (1997), and Meet Joe Black (1998).

Recognition and Breakthrough

Squibb's performance in Alexander Payne's 2013 comedy-drama Nebraska earned her widespread acclaim and a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her portrayal of a candid and resilient woman garnered praise from critics, cementing her status as a formidable character actress.

Noteworthy Film Roles

Following Nebraska, Squibb appeared in several films, including I'll See You in My Dreams (2015), Love the Coopers (2015), Other People (2016), and Palm Springs (2020). Her performances continued to impress, showcasing her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her roles.

Squibb also ventured into voice acting, contributing to animated films such as Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018), Toy Story 4 (2019), Soul (2020), and Inside Out 2 (2024). Her distinctive voice added a unique charm to these characters, broadening her artistic repertoire.

Television Appearances

On television, Squibb had recurring roles in series like Ghost Whisperer, Getting On, Shameless, Good Girls, and Little Voice. Her versatility as an actress was evident in her ability to transition seamlessly between film and television.

A Late-Career Renaissance: Leading Role in Thelma

In 2024, at the age of 94, Squibb played her first leading role in the action comedy film Thelma. The film received positive reviews, highlighting Squibb's energetic and charming performance. This role demonstrated her enduring talent and ability to captivate audiences, even in the later stages of her career.

Squibb is set to appear in the remake of the black comedy Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead and will star in the drama film Eleanor the Great, directed by Scarlett Johansson. These projects reflect her ongoing ambition and passion for acting.

Squibb married Edward Sostek in 1953, but they divorced in 1959. She later married acting teacher Charles Kakatsakis, and they have a son, Harry, who is a filmmaker. Squibb converted to Judaism in the 1950s and has spoken candidly about her views on ageism in the entertainment industry, emphasizing her belief that "rules are meant to be broken."

Legacy and Impact

June Squibb's career, spanning over seven decades, is a testament to her talent, resilience, and passion for acting. From her early days on Broadway to her recent film successes, Squibb has consistently delivered memorable performances, earning her a respected place in the entertainment industry.