An Interview with Mary Steenburgen

Abstract

Since the beginning of her career, Mary Steenburgen has evoked comparisons with one of Hollywood’s most distinctive stars of the 30s and 40s, Jean Arthur. Like Jean Arthur, Steenburgen defies characteristics of a traditional female movie star such as glamour, mystery, and erotic allure—qualities that locate a star somehow beyond the plane of ordinary existence. Her charm lies—like Arthur’s—in precisely those attributes that refuse that aura of unapproachability. Physically, Steenburgen has what she calls a “funny face,” rather than being a classical beauty. That “funny face” is emblematic of a kind of fresh, off-kilter spirit that makes Steenburgen a unique and special film actor. Like Arthur, Steenburgen brings an uncommon integrity to her work in both film and television movies, a radiant honesty born out of inner strength and conviction. From her first role in the Jack Nicholson-directed Goin’ South (1978), Steenburgen displayed a distinct persona. She is feisty, independent, and single-minded, a no-nonsense woman incapable of pretense. Her forthrightness is tempered by a sunny, even-handed disposition and a sweet, disarming innocence. In her interview, Steenburgen remarks that “actors are ... asked to play like children.” Indeed, it is that open and uncomplicated childlike directness that is a part of Steenburgen’s captivating presence.