Jamie Lee Curtis Opens Up About Why She Waited to Act in Horror Movies

In a recent appearance on "The Drew Barrymore Show," Jamie Lee Curtis expressed her gratitude towards her mother, Janet Leigh, for making her wait to start acting in horror movies. This decision may have been a blessing in disguise, given the genre's notorious reputation for being a graveyard for new talent.

A Producer's Request and a Mother's Guidance

Curtis recounted an incident where a producer approached her about landing a role in a low-budget horror film. The producer wanted Curtis to start working on the project immediately, but Janet Leigh intervened, advising her daughter to wait until she had gained more experience.

This advice proved to be sage counsel for Curtis, who credits her mother's guidance with helping her navigate the cutthroat world of Hollywood. By waiting to act in horror movies, Curtis was able to develop her craft and build a stronger foundation for her career.

The Legacy of Janet Leigh

Janet Leigh was an actress and Curtis's mother, known for her iconic role as Marion Crane in Alfred Hitchcock's "Psycho" (1960). Curtis has often spoken about the influence her mother had on her life and career. By making her wait to act in horror movies, Janet Leigh ensured that Jamie Lee Curtis was prepared to take on more challenging roles and handle the intense scrutiny that comes with working in the genre.

A Career Built on Fears and Phobias

Curtis's decision to wait and gain experience paid off when she landed a role in the 1980 horror film "Prom Night." This marked the beginning of her illustrious career, which has included iconic films like "Halloween" (1978), "Trading Places" (1983), and "True Lies" (1994).

Throughout her career, Curtis has tackled a wide range of roles, from comedic leads to dramatic turns. Her versatility and ability to handle intense scenes have earned her a reputation as one of the most reliable horror movie stars.

A Lesson in Perseverance

Curtis's story serves as a reminder that waiting and persevering are essential skills for success in Hollywood. By taking the time to develop her craft and gain experience, Curtis was able to overcome the challenges of working in the horror genre and establish herself as a talented actress.

As Curtis reflected on her mother's guidance, she acknowledged the sacrifices Janet Leigh made for their family. "She [Janet Leigh] told me, 'Jamie, don't get in too deep.' She didn't want me to get in over my head."

A Conversation with Drew Barrymore

During her appearance on "The Drew Barrymore Show," Curtis discussed her mother's advice and how it has influenced her career. When asked about her favorite horror movie role, Curtis replied:

"I think [Halloween] was the first time I really got to be a part of something that I knew I was good at. It was also the first time I had to deal with the kind of scrutiny that comes with being in a horror film."

Curtis's response highlights her growth as an actress and her ability to handle the pressures of working in the genre.

Conclusion

Jamie Lee Curtis's story is a testament to the power of guidance, perseverance, and hard work. By waiting to act in horror movies and gaining experience, Curtis was able to establish herself as a talented actress and overcome the challenges of working in the genre. Her mother Janet Leigh played a significant role in her journey, providing sage advice that helped her navigate the cutthroat world of Hollywood.

Today, Curtis is an iconic figure in the entertainment industry, known for her versatility and ability to handle intense scenes. Her legacy serves as a reminder that with patience, determination, and guidance from those who care, anything is possible.

In conclusion, Jamie Lee Curtis's story is a heartwarming tribute to the enduring power of motherly love and advice.