Kathleen Turner Makes Rare NYC Red Carpet Return for War of the Roses Remake
Kathleen Turner, the 71-year-old screen icon who starred as Barbara Rose in the 1989 dark comedy War of the Roses, stepped out in New York City for a rare red carpet appearance in support of the remake, The Roses. The event saw Turner arrive in a sleek all-black outfit, carrying a cane as she flashed a smile on the carpet.
In the original film, Turner’s Barbara Rose paired a bouncy blonde hairstyle with sharp, stylish suits as the marriage unravels between her character and Oliver Rose, played by Michael Douglas. Turner’s presence at the premiere of the remake highlighted a continued connection to the iconic story, even as she navigates a long career that has weathered serious health challenges.
Turner has battled health issues over the years, with rheumatoid arthritis increasingly shaping her life and work. Her struggle with the autoimmune condition began affecting her ability to perform in the 1990s after a standout period in the industry, including Romancing the Stone in 1984 opposite Douglas and roles in films and television. She has described the pain as debilitating at times; in 2023, she told The Guardian that she couldn’t walk and often had to move around with a cane, describing days when standing, sitting, or even holding a glass could be nearly impossible. The pain, she explained, is not life-threatening but can feel life-changing.
Despite the challenges, Turner cut back on parts and pursued projects on a smaller scale, taking gigs on Friends as Chandler Bing’s drag performer dad, doing voice work, and continuing to act in small but meaningful roles. Her resilience has been a recurring theme in her career, including her return to a prominent screen role in the 2023 show White House Plumbers. Turner has repeatedly emphasized her stubborn determination to stay active, saying she refused to let the illness define her career.
Turner’s NYC appearance comes amid ongoing public interest in her storied career and her enduring influence in Hollywood. While the remake’s specifics remain to be seen, her willingness to support the project and step back into the public eye reflects a broader narrative of perseverance and artistic commitment.
Editor’s note: Kathleen Turner’s journey illustrates the balance many actors strike between craft and health. Her ongoing work, including recent television projects, continues to inspire fans who have followed her since the late 1980s. Fans highlight her bravery in managing a demanding career while facing chronic illness, and her continued public presence helps keep the legacy of War of the Roses alive for a new generation.
Summary: Turner’s rare New York appearance in support of The Roses underscores her enduring impact on film and television, marking a moment of resilience and continued involvement in high-profile projects despite long-standing health challenges.
Positive takeaway: Turner’s celebrated longevity and determination offer a hopeful narrative about pursuing passions and maintaining professional visibility even when faced with chronic health issues.