Mother and Daughter Find Professional Balance on Set

Glenn Close was thrilled when her daughter Annie Starke joined her in a film project set in Scotland last year. But when it came time for Annie to step in front of the camera, Glenn made a conscious decision to step aside. "I figured the best thing would be for me to leave town," Glenn joked in an interview. "I didn’t want Annie to think she had a mother who hovered around," she explained to a reporter from The Golden Globes. It was crucial for Glenn to create space for her daughter, allowing Annie the freedom and independence she needed to shine in her role.

In the film The Wife, Glenn and Annie play the same character at different stages of life. This setup naturally provided them with the opportunity to respect each other's creative process. While on set, they were able to maintain professional boundaries, giving each other the space to focus on their craft. However, off camera, the relationship between mother and daughter is nothing short of warm and loving.

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Glenn and Annie at the premiere of ‘The Wife.’ (Photo Credit: Getty Images)

A Mother's Perspective on Raising an Aspiring Actress

At 71, Glenn Close spoke fondly of her only child, Annie, during a TimesTalks event in NYC on July 31. Her insights were featured in the latest issue of Closer Weekly, now available on newsstands. Annie’s father is Glenn’s ex, producer John H. Starke. Despite Annie's background in show business, Glenn emphasized that she never pushed her daughter into acting. "She taught me how to be a mother," Glenn shared. "I've always felt it was my responsibility to keep her safe, provide food, and ensure she had a roof over her head. But ultimately, she would become whoever she was destined to be—it had nothing to do with me!"

Annie, now 30, echoed her mother's sentiments. "I've known what I wanted to do since I was a child. It's just part of who I am," she told The Golden Globes reporter. While her career choice wasn't a surprise to her parents, Annie acknowledged their unwavering support. "They saw it coming from miles away," she joked, adding that her mom has been an incredible source of encouragement. "I've observed her since the day I was born, and I think she chose the right path for herself," Glenn said proudly.

Annie's Breakthrough Role and Glenn's Reaction

Annie’s performance in The Wife, her first major film role, left Glenn in awe. "I was so proud when I saw her work. It was beautiful," Glenn once remarked. Annie may have learned a thing or two from her six-time Oscar-nominated mother, but she has also inspired Glenn in return. "What I admire about Annie and her peers is their determination. She’s incredibly fierce," Glenn said of her daughter's relentless pursuit of her dreams.

Glenn elaborated on Annie's approach to her role in The Wife: "Annie thought about her paternal grandmother, a chemist who gave up everything to raise a family. Annie sensed that, at the end of her life, there was a certain longing, a lack of fulfillment. I was deeply moved by her understanding of the challenges women have faced," Glenn explained.

Glenn hopes her own career serves as a positive example for her daughter. "I’m thrilled to have work that my daughter can observe and see that I genuinely love. She’ll witness someone who’s deeply engaged and passionate about what they do, and hopefully, someday she’ll find that same kind of fulfillment," Glenn expressed.