From her early days as a teenager on screen to her iconic roles in films like "Carrie" and "Coal Miner's Daughter," Sissy Spacek has carved out a remarkable career in Hollywood. Now, at 68, she’s not just reflecting on her journey but embracing every moment with the same youthful energy that made her a star. In an exclusive chat with Closer Weekly, Sissy shares her thoughts on aging, her thriving career, and the joys of family life.
“It’s truly the most incredible phase of life,” Sissy revealed. “People treat you with so much more respect. They open doors for you, and they let you linger a little longer in conversations. It’s honestly the best time of my life!” This year, she celebrates 44 years of love with her film production designer husband, Jack Fisk, 72, and continues to enjoy the blessings of raising two daughters, Schuyler, 36, and Madison, 29, who have grown into incredible women.
And Sissy’s career is far from slowing down. She’s starring opposite Robert Redford in his final film as an actor, "The Old Man & the Gun," alongside Julia Roberts in Amazon’s hit series "Homecoming," and reuniting with Stephen King for Hulu’s chilling "Castle Rock." Despite her long list of accolades—six Oscar nominations, three Golden Globes, and even a CMA Award for her singing on the "Coal Miner’s Daughter" soundtrack—Sissy still dreams of landing that elusive dream role. "I'm still waiting for it," she joked, with a laugh. Scroll down to dive deeper into our exclusive Q&A with this legendary actress!
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Revisiting Stephen King: A New Chapter in Castle Rock
Sissy’s connection to Stephen King runs deep, dating back to her unforgettable portrayal of Carrie White. Now, she’s bringing her unique talent to Hulu’s "Castle Rock," a series steeped in the world of King’s iconic characters. "Stephen King has been such a monumental part of my career," Sissy gushed. "This show is my way of paying homage to him." Her character in "Castle Rock" isn’t your typical horror trope—she’s a woman living with dementia, adding a layer of complexity and humanity to the story. "It’s thrilling to be part of a project that’s both scary and deeply personal," she explained. Working alongside seasoned actors like Scott Glenn, whom she’s known for 40 years, keeps the experience fresh and exciting.
Teamwork with Robert Redford in The Old Man & the Gun
Sissy’s journey with Robert Redford dates back to her early days in the industry, but their paths didn’t officially cross until now. "When I was just starting out, I met him through our shared director," she recalled with a chuckle. "I was so nervous that I called him 'Bobert.' I’ve carried that memory with me all these years, but I doubt he remembers!" Despite her initial jitters, working with Redford proved to be a delightful experience. "He’s such a gentleman, and his professionalism makes every day on set a joy," she shared. As Redford steps away from acting, Sissy feels honored to be part of his final film.
Sharing the Screen with Julia Roberts in Homecoming
Playing the mother of another Oscar winner, Julia Roberts, in "Homecoming," is a dream come true for Sissy. "Julia is absolutely delightful," she said. "She’s got a heart of gold and a sense of humor that keeps everyone smiling." Despite their height difference—Julia towers over Sissy—they found creative ways to frame their scenes together. "It was a fun challenge!" Sissy added. Their bond extends beyond the screen; Sissy has known Julia since she was a teenager, thanks to her friendship with Eric Roberts, Julia’s brother. "It’s been a pleasure to watch her grow into the incredible actress she is today," Sissy reflected.
Reflecting on a Legendary Career
With six Oscar nominations under her belt, Sissy has left an indelible mark on cinema history. But when fans think of her, which role resonates the most? "It really depends on who you ask!" she laughed. "For those who struggled in high school or faced persecution, Carrie strikes a chord. And Loretta Lynn has millions of fans around the globe. Each film connects with people based on their own experiences, and that’s what makes it all so rewarding." Sissy hopes her latest projects, especially "Castle Rock," will leave a lasting impression on audiences.
Picking Projects: A Lifelong Passion
Even after decades in the industry, Sissy approaches each project with the same enthusiasm she had at the start of her career. "I’ve always been selective," she admitted. "But as you age, the opportunities narrow. That’s okay—it’s all about quality over quantity." For Sissy, the key is staying true to herself and choosing roles that challenge and inspire her.
Challenges of Fame: Staying Grounded
As any public figure knows, maintaining authenticity in the limelight can be tough. "The biggest challenge is not losing sight of who you are," Sissy confessed. "It’s crucial to live a full, normal life because that’s where the real magic happens." Over the years, Sissy has mastered the art of balancing her personal and professional worlds. "I’ve always prioritized my family and my passions," she explained.
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Life on the Farm: Finding Peace Amid Chaos
For the past 40 years, Sissy has called a peaceful farm in Virginia home. "Growing up, I experienced the beauty of rural life, and I wanted to give my daughters that same sense of stability," she shared. Away from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood, Sissy finds solace in gardening, reading, and enjoying quiet moments on her porch with a battery-operated fan—a gift she cherishes. "It’s all about embracing the simple joys of life," she smiled.
Writing Her Story: My Extraordinary Ordinary Life
In 2012, Sissy penned a memoir titled "My Extraordinary Ordinary Life," a heartfelt tribute to her father and the formative years that shaped her. "Writing the book was both a joy and a challenge," she admitted. "It was a way to preserve those precious memories for my daughters." With the help of her dear friend Maryanne Vollers, Sissy poured her heart into the project, balancing it with planning her daughter’s wedding. "It was exhausting but incredibly rewarding," she said. Through the process, she discovered the enduring value of simplicity and human connections.
Marriage and Family: A Lifetime of Love
Sissy’s marriage to Jack Fisk has stood the test of time, and she credits much of their success to a shared sense of humor and creativity. "Jack is the funniest person I know," she laughed. "His jokes are so bad, they’re good!" Their meeting on the set of "Badlands" was serendipitous. "He was the cutest guy there," she reminisced. Over the years, their partnership has grown stronger, especially as their daughters have become adults. "Now, they take care of me," Sissy beamed. "They’re incredible women, and I couldn’t ask for more."
Empty Nests and New Beginnings
When her daughters left for school, Sissy embraced the transition with grace. "My mom always said, 'If you make time for yourself when they’re young, they’ll make time for you when you’re older,'" she recalled. True to her mother’s advice, Sissy and her daughters remain close, chatting regularly despite busy schedules. "They’ve become my best friends," she said fondly.
A Future Filled with Possibilities
With so much already accomplished, what’s next for Sissy? "Sometimes, the simplest things are the most satisfying," she mused. "After a long day, there’s nothing like heading home to the place where you feel most at peace." For Sissy, that’s her farm—a sanctuary where she can recharge and reflect. "Life is good," she concluded with a smile. "I’m grateful for every moment."
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