Darlene Cates facts for kids

Darlene Cates (born Rita Darlene Guthrie; December 13, 1947 – March 26, 2017) was an American actress. She became well-known for her role in the 1993 movie What's Eating Gilbert Grape. In this film, she played the mother of the main character, who stayed at home.

Darlene Cates' Acting Career

Author and screenwriter Peter Hedges saw Darlene Cates on a TV show in 1992. The show was called Sally, and the episode was titled "Too Heavy to Leave Their House". On the show, Darlene talked about her health challenges and how they affected her life.

Because of her health, she had been bedridden for two years in the 1980s. Peter Hedges thought she would be perfect for the role of a mother in his 1993 film What's Eating Gilbert Grape. Darlene accepted the part.

This was her very first time acting in a movie. Her performance was highly praised by critics and her co-stars, including Leonardo DiCaprio and Johnny Depp.

After her movie debut, Darlene also appeared on television. She had roles in the shows Picket Fences in 1994 and Touched by an Angel in 1996. She also had a small part in the 2001 film Wolf Girl. For this movie, the film's stars traveled from Romania to Texas to film their scenes with Darlene.

Her Personal Life

Darlene Cates married Robert Cates on January 11, 1963. Robert was a U.S. Marine. They had three children: a daughter named Sheri Ann, and two sons named Mark and Chris. Darlene also had four grandchildren. She lived in Forney, Texas.

In 1992, she earned her high school diploma. She completed her studies through special courses taken by mail. In 2012, Darlene had lost a lot of weight after some health problems in 2010. She spent almost a year in the hospital during that time. After improving her health, she hoped to start acting again.

Her Passing

Darlene Cates passed away peacefully in her sleep on March 26, 2017. She was 69 years old. Her daughter, Sheri Cates Morgan, shared the sad news on social media.

Filmography

Movies

Television Shows

See also

In Spanish: Darlene Cates para niños