Gillian Anderson recently shared insights into the challenges she faced while balancing her successful Hollywood career with family responsibilities. In an interview with The Sunday Times, Anderson discussed the sacrifices involved as her role in ‘The X-Files’ propelled her to fame.
At 58, Anderson, known for her iconic portrayal of FBI Special Agent Dana Scully, reflected on the impact her early career had on her family life. She acknowledged some regrets, especially concerning her parenting choices. While Anderson initially claimed to have no regrets, she later admitted reconsidering certain aspects of her early parenting.
“No, there are a couple of things, in terms of early parenting, that I now would say, I wish I’d thought this through or I wish I’d been less selfish,” she said.
Anderson became a mother at 26, welcoming her daughter Piper with Clyde Klotz, ‘The X-Files’ assistant art director. The couple divorced in 1997, resulting in Piper shuttling between Los Angeles and Vancouver to spend time with both parents.
Piper attended a French lycée in both cities, frequently traveling between households. Anderson, while reflecting on these times, expressed her concerns about the demands placed on her young daughter.
“It was intense for her, with no French in the household, to suddenly be getting a plane every three weeks,” Anderson noted. “It’s a lot to ask of a six-year-old.”
Anderson’s routine encompassed long working hours, leaving little room for negotiation despite her significant role in the show’s success.
“That show couldn’t have done without [me], and so I had leverage that I’m not sure I knew,” Anderson remarked.
Having evaluated her past decisions, Anderson explores alternative scenarios, pondering a life where she might have taken a more modest approach to her career for the sake of family.
“There’s another version of my life where I could have worked less, had a smaller life and been more present as a parent,” she shared.
Her perspective shifted when she later had two sons, Oscar and Felix, with Mark Griffiths. Anderson continues to balance work and family, maintaining a prolific career on-screen.
Her recent projects include roles in ‘The Crown,’ ‘Sex Education,’ and ‘The Salt Path.’ She also starred in ‘Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma,’ which premiered at Cannes.
Approaching 60, Anderson’s passion for acting remains strong. She discusses the enjoyment she derives from her work and how she continues to reevaluate her professional aspirations as she ages.
“I feel very lucky to still be working,” she told The Sunday Times. “I’m having so much fun.”
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