Phoebe Cates: A Life Beyond Hollywood. Phoebe Cates, born July 16, 1963, in New York City, seemed destined for stardom. Coming from a family of entertainers, she first dreamed of ballet before an injury led her to modeling and eventually acting. Her breakout came in 1982 with Fast Times at Ridgemont High, where her role as Linda Barrett became iconic.
She followed with hits like Private School and Gremlins, cementing her place in pop culture. Though she had the talent and star power to dominate Hollywood, Phoebe chose a different path. In 1989, she married actor Kevin Kline, and the couple agreed one parent would stay home with their children.
When their son and daughter were born in the 1990s, Phoebe stepped away from film to focus on family life. She made only brief returns, including The Anniversary Party in 2001 and reprising her Gremlins role in a 2015 video game. But her creative spirit found another outlet: in 2005 she opened Blue Tree, a boutique on Madison Avenue that reflects her personal taste and artistry.
Now in her 60s, Phoebe lives quietly in New York with her family. Her daughter, Greta, performs as indie musician Frankie Cosmos, while her son Owen works in film. Although she left Hollywood early, her legacy remains strong—her performances in Fast Times and Gremlins are still beloved, and her graceful decision to prioritize authenticity and family over fame makes her story timeless.
Phoebe Cates proved that true success isn’t only about staying in the spotlight—it’s about living life on your own terms.
