Kate Burton reminisces about her time as the landlord of none other than Jodie Foster during their days at Yale University. The actress shared this exclusive anecdote with PEOPLE during a screening for her latest project, Netflix’s The Beast in Me. Despite many years passing since then, Burton vividly remembers Foster as her tenant while they were both pursuing their studies at Yale in the early 1980s.
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Burton, an accomplished actress with three Emmy nominations for her roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal, as well as three Tony nods for her performances in various plays, expressed her unwavering belief in Foster’s future success in Hollywood. She recounted the unique dynamic of being Foster’s landlord while she was an undergraduate and Burton was a graduate student at Yale, creating a memorable connection between the two talented women.
Jodie Foster, who began her studies at Yale in 1980, delved into African-American literature and graduated magna cum laude in 1985. Prior to her academic pursuits, Foster made a name for herself as a child star, earning acclaim for her role in the 1976 film Taxi Driver, which garnered her a Best Supporting Actress Oscar nomination at just 12 years old. Foster’s impressive acting skills were evident even at a young age, setting the stage for her illustrious career in the entertainment industry.
Reflecting on Foster’s career trajectory, Burton praised her as “the most incredible child actor that has ever existed,” highlighting the extraordinary journey Foster has embarked on since her days at Yale. Foster’s subsequent achievements include winning Best Actress Oscars for The Accused (1988) and The Silence of the Lambs (1991), as well as earning nominations for her roles in films like Nell (1994) and Nyad (2024).
Burton commended Foster for being a guiding light for many actors, especially child performers, who aspire to carve out their own path in the industry. Foster’s impact resonates with those who look up to her as a beacon of inspiration and resilience, knowing that opportunities abound for talented individuals in the world of acting.
During the Netflix screening of The Beast in Me, Burton hinted at her involvement in the popular series Grey’s Anatomy, teasing that she had recently filmed an episode and is likely to be featured in another later in the year. She expressed her fondness for the show, referring to it as “the gift that keeps on giving” for her career. The Beast in Me is set to premiere on Netflix on November 13, offering viewers a glimpse into Burton’s current endeavours in the entertainment realm.
As Burton and Foster’s paths intertwine through shared experiences at Yale to their respective accomplishments in the entertainment industry, their connection serves as a testament to the enduring impact of mentorship and support among women in Hollywood. Foster’s journey from a budding talent to an award-winning actress mirrors Burton’s own trajectory, illustrating the power of encouragement and belief in one’s potential within the realm of show business.