Gretchen Mol, now 52 years old, is reflecting on her life after being considered the “It Girl” of the 90s. She acknowledges that Hollywood is always welcoming new faces and emphasizes that being in a youth-focused industry is a reality that she has accepted. Despite this, Mol is known for her work in popular TV shows like Boardwalk Empire and films such as Rounders and Manchester by the Sea. She believes that as she has gotten older, her career has become more about enjoying the process of creating rather than worrying about what others think of her work.
After being labeled the quintessential “It Girl” by Vanity Fair in 1998, Mol’s career has slowed down. She and her husband Tod Williams have moved from New York City to the Berkshires during the COVID-19 pandemic to raise their teenage children. She reveals that they have found a small, welcoming community in the area where they know everyone and feel at home. While Mol’s children are aware of her past success and accolades, they are not overly impressed or interested in her previous career achievements, including being featured in Vanity Fair.
Currently, Mol is starring in Ed Burns’ new movie, Millers in Marriage, where she plays an aging rock star dealing with a failing marriage. She finds the script relatable, as it explores a phase of life where children require less attention, allowing for more time to focus on personal endeavors. Mol expresses gratitude for being able to balance work and raising children, acknowledging that her priorities shifted over the years. She now has the opportunity to pursue the projects she always wanted to do during this stage of her life.
Mol’s move to the Berkshires has provided her with a sense of peace and stability, allowing her to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. She and her family still visit the city when needed, but they are enjoying the slower pace and close-knit community they have found in their new home. Despite being in an industry that is always evolving, Mol is content with where she is in her career and personal life. She values the moments of wisdom and experience that come with age, as well as the freedom to focus more on the enjoyment of her craft rather than worrying about external opinions.
Reflecting on her career and personal life, Mol acknowledges the changing priorities that come with motherhood and aging. She believes that having more life experience has allowed her to approach her work with a different perspective, focusing on the joy of creating rather than the expectations of others. As she navigates this new phase of her life, Mol is grateful for the opportunities she has had and the chance to explore new possibilities and interests that were put on hold while raising her children. She remains optimistic about what the future holds and is excited to continue pursuing her passions in both her personal and professional life.
