Sigourney Weaver Reflects on Fans Seeing Her ‘Working Girl’ Character as ‘Wronged’
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Sigourney Weaver, the esteemed actress with three Academy Award nominations under her belt, is well-known for her diverse and compelling roles in Hollywood. In a recent exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Weaver delves into her iconic character Katherine in the 1988 movie “Working Girl” and reveals an intriguing perspective shared by some fans.
“Working Girl,” directed by Mike Nichols, follows the story of a determined New York City secretary named Tess portrayed by Melanie Griffith. The plot unfolds as Tess suspects her boss, the sophisticated corporate executive Katherine played by Weaver, of stealing her idea for a crucial business deal. While Katherine is away recovering from a skiing injury, Tess seizes the opportunity to impersonate her and navigate the corporate world, even getting involved romantically with Katherine’s partner, Jack (Harrison Ford).
Receiving six Academy Award nominations and one win for Best Original Song, “Working Girl” remains a classic in the comedy genre. Despite Katherine being perceived as the antagonist in the film, Weaver reveals that not all fans see her character in the same light. Some admirers approach her with a different viewpoint, expressing empathy for Katherine and believing she was unfairly portrayed as the villain.
Weaver recalls encounters with fans who sympathetically told her, “Katherine Parker, you were wronged. Melanie Griffith was stealing your clothes and your boyfriend. We can’t believe you lost!” This revelation sheds light on the nuanced interpretations of characters in cinema and how diverse perspectives can shape audiences’ perceptions of a story’s dynamics.
The actress reminisces about her experience filming “Working Girl,” highlighting the collaborative efforts that brought the movie to life. Adorned in stylish ensembles designed by Ann Roth and with her hair styled by Alan D’Angerio, Weaver reminisces fondly about the attention to detail that contributed to the film’s authenticity and charm.
While Weaver missed out on the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her role in “Working Girl,” she clinched the prestigious award at the Golden Globes that year. Her performance in the movie captured the hearts of viewers and industry peers, including a memorable encounter with acting legend Meryl Streep at the Golden Globes ceremony.
Weaver’s journey in Hollywood traces back to her childhood in New York City, where she was raised by parents deeply rooted in the entertainment industry. Her mother, Elizabeth Inglis, an English actress, and her father, Pat Weaver, a former president of NBC, instilled in her a love for the arts and storytelling from a young age.
From her breakout role as Ellen Ripley in “Aliens” to portraying the enigmatic Katharine in “Working Girl,” Weaver’s career has been marked by a diverse range of characters that have resonated with audiences worldwide. Beyond her on-screen success, she also reflects on her formative years at Yale School of Drama and the challenges she overcame to establish herself as a formidable talent in the industry.
As she continues to captivate audiences with her latest project, “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” Weaver’s legacy as a versatile and influential figure in cinema endures. Despite her notable contributions to the sci-fi genre with films like “Aliens” and “Avatar,” Weaver remains humble, viewing each role as an opportunity to bring compelling stories to life on the silver screen. With an illustrious career spanning decades, Sigourney Weaver’s impact on the film industry resonates far beyond the characters she portrays, embodying the essence of a true cinematic icon.
In conclusion, Sigourney Weaver’s reflections on her iconic roles and the enduring legacy of her characters offer a glimpse into the multifaceted journey of a seasoned actress whose talent knows no bounds. Through her compelling performances and dedication to her craft, Weaver continues to inspire audiences and fellow actors with her unwavering passion for storytelling.