June Squibb Lead Role at 94: At the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, Hollywood veteran June Squibb, with more than 70 years in the industry, celebrated her first lead role in the Mission: Impossible-inspired film ‘Thelma.’ In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 94-year-old Oscar nominee shared insights into her enduring career, her enthusiasm for daring stunts, and her unique experience on set.
Squibb, who plays a grandmother seeking revenge for a phone scam in the action-comedy, fearlessly embraced physical challenges, including rolling over a bench in a glass shop and engaging in a scooter clash with Richard Roundtree. Drawing parallels with her voracious reading habits, Squibb’s on-set persona mirrors that of action star Tom Cruise, who graciously allowed the film to use clips from Mission: Impossible.
Working alongside Roundtree, Fred Hechinger, Parker Posey, Clark Gregg, and Malcolm McDowell, Squibb expressed pride in her performance, highlighting the joy she found in maneuvering the scooter on their relaxed set. This confidence stems from her extensive career, spanning the 1950s stage to notable films like ‘Meet Joe Black’ (1998) and ‘Palm Springs’ (2020), as well as TV roles in ‘Glee,’ ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ ‘Modern Family,’ and more.
Reflecting on her enduring drive, Squibb credited her independence as a child, emphasizing that her unwavering self-confidence has been crucial to her continued success. In response to ageist critics, she dismissively remarked, “I ignore them. I don’t really listen to it or don’t really care what they’re saying.”
Far from slowing down, Squibb has ambitious plans, with two upcoming projects and an exciting role in the Pixar sequel ‘Inside Out 2,’ set to premiere in June. Despite a career spanning generations and genres, Squibb expressed a desire to try her hand at a Western, reminiscing about her younger days riding horses. With a hearty laugh, she mused, “Maybe if they can get me on the horse, I can stay on and do it.”
As the 2024 Sundance Film Festival unfolds until Jan. 28, Squibb’s infectious confidence continues to inspire, proving that age is no barrier to pursuing one’s passion in the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood.
FAQ About June Squibb Lead Role at 94
What is June Squibb known for?
Juno Temple featured in Disney+’s Godmothered and portrayed Vivian in Apple TV’s Palmer alongside Justin Timberlake. Additionally, she took on the role of Mrs. Danforth in the 2022 Apple TV+ series Little America.
How old is June Squibb?
6 November 1929 94 year.
Who is Maggie Banks in Glee?
June Squibb: Maggie Banks
Who plays Elsie Clatch?
In the Grey’s Anatomy episode “Till I Hear It from You” (2017), June Squibb takes on the role of Dr. Elsie Clatch, as credited on IMDb.
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