Kate Winslet recently shared insights into her teenage years, revealing that she was "curious" about same-sex relationships and had kissed a few girls. The actress, known for her roles in "Titanic" and "Heavenly Creatures," discussed her early experiences and how they relate to her portrayal of characters with complex relationships.
Winslet, a thrice-married actress, explained that some of her "first intimate experiences" were with other girls. During her late teenage years, she was curious about same-sex relationships. This curiosity helped her connect with her role in the 1994 film "Heavenly Creatures," which explores an intense and obsessive relationship between two teenage girls.
Winslet's career has included portraying LGBTQ+ characters, such as her role in "Ammonite," where she played a British palaeontologist who develops a passionate relationship with a woman. In "Ammonite", Winslet's character, Mary Anning, has a love affair with Charlotte Murchison, played by Saoirse Ronan. Winslet has acknowledged the ongoing discussion about straight actors playing gay roles. She hopes that one day, it will be common for gay actors to be cast in LGBTQ+ roles without needing "punchy film stars" to get the projects made. Winslet said that taking the role in "Ammonite" provided her with the chance to bring an LGBTQ+ story to a wider audience.
Winslet has also been a vocal advocate for inclusivity and honesty within the film industry. She has spoken about the pressure some actors face to conceal their sexuality for fear of being typecast or losing opportunities. Winslet has shared that many young actors she knows are afraid their sexuality will be revealed and that it will stand in the way of them being cast in straight roles. She finds this situation "f***ed up" and believes that Hollywood needs to move past the dated notion that an actor's sexuality should determine their casting. She also recounted an instance where a well-known actor was advised by their American agent not to publicize his bisexuality. Winslet is aware of at least four actors who are actively hiding their sexuality and finds it painful that they fear being found out.
Beyond her comments on LGBTQ+ representation, Winslet has shared other personal experiences related to her acting career. She described the famous kissing scene in "Titanic" with Leonardo DiCaprio as a "nightmare" due to makeup issues and the physical discomfort of her corset. Despite the challenges, she recognizes the film's lasting impact and feels proud of its continued resonance with new generations.
