"Character roles definitely age better than your ingenues. You don't get to keep doing that"
About this Quote
Catherine O'Hara's quote, "Character functions absolutely age better than your ingenues. You do not get to keep doing that", provides a thoughtful reflection on the development of acting careers, especially in Hollywood. At the heart of this statement is the distinction in between "ingenue" roles and "character" roles. In the show business, an ingenue is typically a young, appealing female lead character who is frequently idealized and rather naive. These functions rely heavily on the vibrant look and beauty of the star.
O'Hara suggests that these ingenue roles are naturally tied to youth and, as such, are fleeting in nature. A star can not indefinitely play an ingenue due to the fact that the function is restricted to a specific age and phase of life. This is a reality that many stars face, as the market typically stresses youth and beauty, in some cases to the detriment of celebrating the nuanced portrayals that older actors can deliver.
On the other hand, character roles offer opportunities that grow richer with time. These roles often demand depth, complexity, and experience. They are not constrained by age or appearance and frequently permit actors to explore a wider series of human experiences and feelings. O'Hara mentions that while the ingenue is a passing stage, character functions are withstanding. They provide stars the opportunity to evolve and adapt gradually, often ending up being more engaging as stars themselves develop.
Furthermore, this point of view highlights a more comprehensive commentary on how aging can be perceived in artistic occupations. While many might view aging as a limitation, O'Hara frames it as a chance for development, using roles that are more diverse and introspective. In her eyes, character roles require an actor to draw on their collected life experiences, making them vital as a profession progresses. Through this lens, aging isn't simply a natural progression however a property, enriching an actor's ability to bring characters to life with credibility and gravitas.
