Darlene Cates, best known for her role as mother Bonnie Grape in What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, has died at age 69.
She passed away in her sleep Sunday morning. Her sister Sheri Cates Morgan posted the sad news on Facebook: “It is with a bitter-sweet heart that we share that our precious wife, mother, and Gaga, Darlene Guthrie Cates, was called Home, somewhat unexpectedly, peacefully in her sleep Sunday morning, March 26th. We take comfort in knowing that she is no longer in pain and is in the arms of our Heavenly Father, breaking away only to dance with our Savior, Jesus. (Dancing was something she talked about loving to do ‘back in the day!’)”
Darlene was first discovered by screenwriter Peter Hedges after she appeared on an episode Sally Jessy Raphael to talk about her weight.
From there, Peter offered her the role of Bonnie Grape, playing the film mother of Johnny Depp and Leonardo DiCaprio’s characters. The film was a critical hit, with Leo being nominated for an Oscar and Golden Globe for the role of Arnie Grape.
After filming, Leo wrote Darlene this note: “I’m not really the best in expressing my words in writing but you are the most special person I have ever met. I’ll always remember you as the best acting mamma I ever had. You triumphed in your role.”
Darlene did not act much after the 1993 film, though she did appear in the 2001 film Wolf Girl and an episode of Touched By an Angel. She has a film titled Billboard set to be released in 2017.
What was your favorite moment from Momma Grape in the film? Please share your memories in the comment section, and Liked Video this news to honor the late actress!
It is with a bitter-sweet heart that we share that our precious wife, mother, and Gaga, Darlene Guthrie Cates, was…
Posted by Sheri Cates Morgan on Montag, 27. März 2017
