Gretchen Mol, known for her roles in HBO’s Boardwalk Empire and films such as Rounders and Manchester by the Sea, is reflecting on her career and life after being labeled the quintessential “It Girl” of the ’90s. Despite the constant turnover of fresh faces in Hollywood and the industry’s preference for youth, Mol believes that getting older as an actor has actually freed her up. With more wisdom and life experiences, she no longer feels the pressure of what people will think about her work, allowing her to focus more on the fun and process of creating.
Mol’s career has slowed down since being dubbed the “It Girl” by Vanity Fair in 1998. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she and her husband Tod Williams moved from New York City to the Berkshires to raise their two teenage children, Ptolemy and Winter. They have embraced the small, lovely community where everyone knows each other, providing a sense of comfort and connection. Despite Mol’s past career accomplishments, her children are less interested in them, and she finds it challenging to convey to them the significance of being labeled an “It Girl” by Vanity Fair.
Currently, Mol is starring in Ed Burns’ upcoming film, Millers in Marriage, where she plays an aging rock star navigating her second act while confronting the challenges of a failing marriage. The script resonated with Mol, reflecting conversations she has had with friends about transitioning into a phase of life where children demand less attention. Although Mol was fortunate to continue working while raising her kids, her priorities have shifted. With more time on her hands, she is now able to explore endeavors that she had always wanted to pursue, marking a new chapter in her career and personal life.
Reflecting on the changes in the entertainment industry and her own life, Mol acknowledges the constant evolution of Hollywood and the importance of embracing new opportunities and challenges. While the industry may favor youth, Mol recognizes the benefits of aging as an actor, bringing more depth and understanding to her performances. As she continues to navigate her career and personal life in the Berkshires, Mol remains grateful for the experiences and opportunities that have shaped her journey.
In her interview with People, Mol shares her insights on motherhood, career, and personal growth, highlighting the balance between pursuing her passions and nurturing her family. With her children growing up and requiring less attention, Mol finds herself at a crossroads, where new possibilities and creative endeavors await. As she delves into the role of an aging rock star in Millers in Marriage, Mol embraces the challenges of portraying a character navigating the complexities of relationships and self-discovery, drawing from her own experiences and wisdom.
Looking ahead, Mol expresses her excitement for the future and the opportunities that lie ahead, as she continues to evolve and grow as an actor and individual. With a renewed sense of purpose and a deep appreciation for her journey, Mol is ready to seize the moment and embrace the next chapter, both on-screen and in her personal life. As she continues to explore her passions and aspirations, Mol’s journey serves as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and grace that define her career and life after being the “It Girl” of the ’90s.
