UPDATE: Acclaimed actress Christine Baranski delivered an inspiring message on the importance of being present during her recent appearance at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, California. This event, which took place on October 21, 2023, marked the conclusion of the 20th annual Lesher Foundation’s Newsmakers: Lesher Speaker Series.
Baranski, known for her iconic roles in “The Good Wife” and “Mamma Mia!”, captivated a packed audience with her reflections on life, career, and the vital need to disconnect from digital distractions. “In the theater of life, in which we are all players, we must practice the art of being human and present every single day,” she declared. This powerful message resonates in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world.
The evening began with remarks from Heather Holmes, a KTVU Fox 2 anchor, who introduced Baranski and acknowledged her remarkable achievements, including her induction into the Theater Hall of Fame in 2018. Holmes emphasized the evening’s focus on Baranski not just as an actress but as a person.
Baranski paid tribute to the Diablo Regional Arts Association (DRAA), the nonprofit partner of the Lesher Center, which supports arts education and community initiatives. Reflecting on her own upbringing in Buffalo, New York, she shared the transformative role of similar programs in her life, stating, “That’s where a kid’s heart can ignite and set fire to a long career.”
The actress candidly recounted her early struggles, including her initial rejection from the prestigious Juilliard School due to a speech impediment. “I always say I got into Juilliard by the skin of my teeth,” she joked, highlighting her mother’s sacrifices to ensure Baranski could pursue her dreams.
Baranski also opened up about her love story with her late husband, Matthew Cowles, which blossomed in the Bay Area while filming the 1984 movie “Crackers.” Despite the film’s poor reception, she cherishes the memories of their time together in San Francisco.
Throughout her career, Baranski has balanced the demands of motherhood with her professional life, a challenge many women face. “There’s so much that goes into what is perceived as a successful life, but when you’re living it, you don’t see it that way,” she reflected, emphasizing the need for resilience and prioritizing family.
As she transitioned into Hollywood in her 40s, Baranski expressed a unique perspective on aging in the entertainment industry. “Frankly, I was never afraid of getting older in my profession,” she stated, noting her roles often catered to more mature characters.
Baranski’s portrayal of Diane Lockhart was highlighted as a groundbreaking representation of women in film and television. “Why don’t we see more women in film or TV that are like the women around us who are running institutions?” she asked, advocating for more diverse and realistic portrayals of female characters.
The actress also addressed the alarming rise of AI technology in the industry, calling it “creepy” and urging for better regulations to protect intellectual property. “We’re way behind schedule in terms of how we regulate, legislate and foresee the consequences of this new tech phenomenon,” she warned.
While acknowledging these challenges, Baranski remains optimistic about the future of live theater. “Live theater is going to be invaluable and relevant,” she assured the audience, emphasizing the importance of nurturing the arts and educating young performers.
In closing, Baranski encouraged attendees to practice the art of presence, advising them to “find ways of calming down” amid the chaos of modern life. “We live in a culture of hyperbole… and I think we need to find ways of living in our deeper selves,” she concluded.
This event served as a poignant reminder of the power of connection and the human experience, encouraging audiences to engage fully in the world around them. As Baranski’s final words lingered in the air, the call to action was clear: be present, be aware, and cherish each moment.
