Sam Elliott’s Wife Katharine Ross Is an Oscar Nominee! Get to Know the Actor’s Longtime Spouse

Are you a fan of Sam Elliott and curious about his wife, Katharine Ross? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll delve into the life and career of Katharine Ross, an accomplished actress and Oscar nominee, who has been married to Sam Elliott for decades. Let’s explore the fascinating story of this Hollywood power couple.

Early Life and Background

Katharine Ross was born on January 29, 1940, in Los Angeles, California. Although her parents were not involved in the entertainment industry, Ross spent part of her childhood in Hollywood before her family relocated to the Walnut Creek neighborhood near the San Francisco Bay Area. She completed her education at Las Lomas High School in 1957.

Discovering a Passion for Acting

While attending Santa Rosa Junior College, Ross stumbled upon her love for acting. It all started when she participated in the school’s production of “The King and I.” The experience ignited a strong desire to pursue a career in entertainment, prompting Ross to drop out of college and apply to The Actors Workshop in San Francisco.

Minor Television Roles and Struggles

During her three years at The Actors Workshop, Ross faced the challenges that many aspiring actors encounter. However, her resilience paid off, and she secured several minor television roles. Ross recounted her experiences, stating, “I was queen of the screen tests. Daily runs from San Francisco to L.A. and back in time for the Workshop’s curtain time. On Gunsmoke, I was a sympathetic crippled clubfoot.”

The Breakthrough: “The Graduate”

Ross’s big break came in 1966 when she signed a contract with Universal Studios. One of her most memorable roles was as Elaine Robinson in the acclaimed film “The Graduate,” directed by Mike Nichols. This iconic performance earned Ross an Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe for New Star of the Year.

Riding Horses and Passion for Nature

Aside from her successful acting career, Ross has always had a deep passion for horses and nature. Her love for horseback riding began at the age of seven and has remained a significant part of her life. Ross often incorporates her equestrian skills into her film roles, further fueling her connection to the outdoors. She once shared, “Being horseback takes you away from your problems or whatever is bothering you. I feel very fortunate that I can get away into nature and take a great ride, always coming back feeling much better than when I started out.”

A Lasting Love: Sam Elliott and Katharine Ross

In the late 1960s, Katharine Ross and Sam Elliott’s paths crossed while working on the film “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.” However, it wasn’t until a decade later, during the making of “The Legacy” in 1978, that they truly connected. Ross had recently ended her previous marriage, and Elliott seized the opportunity to pursue a relationship. The couple tied the knot in 1984 and welcomed their daughter, Cleo Rose Elliott, a few months later.

A Partnership Both On and Off Screen

Throughout their marriage, Elliott and Ross have not only supported each other personally but professionally as well. They have collaborated on various projects, showcasing their talent both on-screen and behind the scenes. Their enduring partnership is a testament to their unwavering commitment and love for one another.

Maintaining a Successful Marriage

In a 2017 interview with NPR, Sam Elliott shared the secrets to their lasting marriage. “I think really what it boils down to is we love each other, and we work at it. And I think more importantly than anything, it takes wanting to be married,” he said. Elliott expressed his gratitude for having both a successful movie career and a loving family, considering it an “embarrassment of riches.”

Conclusion

Katharine Ross, an accomplished actress and Oscar nominee, has been the life partner of Sam Elliott for decades. From her early struggles to her breakthrough role in “The Graduate,” Ross has established herself as a talented and passionate actress. Alongside Elliott, she continues to contribute to the world of cinema, creating a lasting legacy both personally and professionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long have Sam Elliott and Katharine Ross been married?

Sam Elliott and Katharine Ross have been married for nearly four decades. They tied the knot in 1984.

2. Which film earned Katharine Ross an Oscar nomination?

Katharine Ross received an Oscar nomination for her role as Elaine Robinson in the film “The Graduate.”

3. What is Katharine Ross’s background and early life?

Katharine Ross was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. She spent part of her childhood in Hollywood before moving to the Walnut Creek neighborhood near the San Francisco Bay Area.

4. How did Sam Elliott and Katharine Ross meet?

Sam Elliott and Katharine Ross first met on the set of the film “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” in the late 1960s. Their connection deepened during their work on “The Legacy” in 1978.

5. Are Sam Elliott and Katharine Ross involved in any joint projects?

Yes, Sam Elliott and Katharine Ross have collaborated on various projects throughout their careers, showcasing their talent both on-screen and behind the scenes.