About Darlene Cates
Darlene Cates was a renowned American actress known for her roles in various movies and TV shows. She was born on December 13, 1947, in Borger, Texas, and grew up in Dumas, Texas. Cates was known for her incredible acting skills, but she also made headlines for her weight, which was over 500 pounds at one point in her life.
Early Life and Career
Darlene Cates had a difficult childhood, and she often struggled with her weight. Despite this, she pursued her dreams of becoming an actress and landed her first role in the movie “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape” in 1993. The movie was a huge success, and Cates received critical acclaim for her performance as Bonnie Grape, the mother of Johnny Depp’s character.
After her breakthrough role, Cates continued to act in various movies and TV shows. She appeared in “Picket Fences,” “Touched by an Angel,” and “Wolf Girl,” among others. Despite her success in the entertainment industry, Cates continued to struggle with her weight and health issues.
Health Issues and Cause of Death
Darlene Cates battled various health issues throughout her life, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. In 2012, she underwent gastric bypass surgery and lost over 200 pounds. However, her health continued to decline, and she passed away on March 26, 2017, at the age of 69.
The cause of Darlene Cates’ death was complications from diabetes. Her family released a statement after her passing, saying, “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.”
Legacy and Impact
Darlene Cates’ legacy lives on through her incredible acting career and the impact she had on those who knew her. Her breakthrough role in “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape” opened doors for other plus-size actors in Hollywood and brought attention to the issue of body shaming. Cates’ bravery and talent will always be remembered and celebrated.
Conclusion
Darlene Cates was a talented actress who overcame many obstacles in her life to pursue her dreams. Her incredible performance in “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape” will always be remembered, and her legacy will continue to inspire others. Although she is no longer with us, Darlene Cates will always hold a special place in the hearts of her fans and loved ones.
FAQ
Who was Darlene Cates?
Darlene Cates was an American actress, born on December 13, 1947, in Borger, Texas. She was best known for her role as Bonnie Grape in the 1993 drama film “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape.”
What was Darlene Cates’ acting career?
Darlene Cates’ acting career began with her breakthrough role in “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape.” She also appeared in other films, such as “Picket Fences,” “Touched by an Angel,” and “Wolf Girl.” She also made guest appearances on various TV shows.
What was the cause of Darlene Cates’ death?
Darlene Cates passed away on March 26, 2017, due to complications from diabetes. She was 69 years old at the time of her death.
What was Darlene Cates’ legacy?
Darlene Cates’ legacy was her memorable performance in “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape,” which earned her critical acclaim and a Screen Actors Guild nomination. She was also known for being an advocate for body positivity and inspiring others to embrace their bodies.
