Phoebe Cates's Current Age and Birth Date
Phoebe Cates was born on July 16, 1963, making her 62 years old as of 2025. She turns 63 in July 2026. This age is widely reported in authoritative biographies, interviews, and public records, including her official biography and reputable news profiles. She is the daughter of musician Keith Cates and actress Nan Cates, and she first gained recognition in the early 1980s. Confirming her age through primary sources such as birth indexes and publisher biographies ensures accuracy over time.
Early Life and Family Background
Phoebe Cates grew up in New York City, where she was exposed to the arts from an early age. Her mother, Nan Cates, was an actress, and her father, Keith Cates, was a musician. This environment encouraged her creative development. She attended professional training as a teenager and balanced education with early modeling work. These formative years shaped her disciplined approach to entering the entertainment industry.
High School and Early Modeling
By her mid-teens, Cates was working in print modeling, which introduced her to casting directors and photographers. She completed high school while managing modest freelance assignments. Her discipline in academics and modeling helped her avoid common pitfalls faced by young people in the public eye. She used this period to refine her interests before committing fully to acting.
Breakthrough Role in Fast Times at Ridgemont High
In 1982, Phoebe Cates starred as Linda Barrett in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, a defining role that established her as a notable young actress in Hollywood. The film captured the authentic experience of teen life and remains a cultural touchstone. Her performance balanced humor and sincerity, contributing to the movie’s lasting popularity. Casting directors noted her ability to convey vulnerability and wit simultaneously.
- Role that brought her widespread recognition
- Performance praised for naturalism and emotional clarity
- Contributed to a defining film of early 1980s pop culture
Career Beyond Acting: Business Ventures and Writing
After scaling back acting in the late 1980s, Cates shifted toward entrepreneurship and writing. She opened the renowned Tea Shop in New York City, which became a beloved neighborhood fixture for over two decades. She also authored children’s books, including Blueberry Pie, showcasing her storytelling talents. These endeavors illustrate a successful transition from screen to business and literature.
Tea Shop and Literary Work
The Tea Shop allowed Cates to blend her appreciation for hospitality and creativity. Her children’s books received positive reviews for charming illustrations and thoughtful narratives. This phase of her career reinforced her public image as a thoughtful, multifaceted entrepreneur. The longevity of her business ventures reflects careful planning and community connection.
Personal Life and Public Privacy
Phoebe Cates married actor Keith Carradine in 1983, and the couple has two children, including actress Martha Plimpton. She has largely protected her family from intense media scrutiny, choosing a low-profile domestic life. This privacy has helped maintain a stable home environment while supporting her family’s careers. Her approach to public life prioritizes personal boundaries over constant visibility.
Balancing Career and Family
Cates’s ability to step away from constant publicity demonstrates confidence in her legacy. Rather than chasing trends, she focused on sustainable creative projects and family time. Colleagues have noted her humility and dedication to quality over quantity in her professional choices. This clarity of purpose has contributed to her enduring respect in the industry.
How to Verify Phoebe Cates’s Age and Background
To confirm factual details about Phoebe Cates, consult reliable sources such as official biographies, library records, and reputable databases. Birth indexes from New York and published profiles from authoritative outlets provide consistent information. Cross-referencing multiple trusted sources reduces the risk of misinformation. Using primary documents ensures that age and career details remain accurate for long-term reference.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 16, 1963 | Public Birth Records, Biographies |
| Reported Age in 2025 | 62 years old | Authoritative Profiles and News Archives |
| Notable Role | Linda Barrett in Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982) | Film Credits and Interviews |
| Career Shift | Owner of The Tea Shop and children’s book author | Business Features and Published Interviews |
| Family | Spouse Keith Carradine; children including Martha Plimpton | Verified Biographies and Public Records |
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
Some online sources provide conflicting birth years or confuse Phoebe Cates with other celebrities. Because she maintains a low public profile, unverified claims can circulate more easily. Relying on established biographies, official databases, and reputable news organizations helps correct these inaccuracies. Clear documentation of her birth date and career milestones supports consistent reporting. This approach protects both factual accuracy and her legacy.
Why Accurate Age Information Matters for Public Figures
Correct age reporting affects historical records, casting context, and audience understanding of a career timeline. For researchers, journalists, and fans, precise data supports credible work and informed discussion. Misinformation can distort perceptions of a person’s professional evolution. Using verified sources ensures that retrospectives and comparisons remain meaningful. Over time, accuracy reinforces trust between media, scholars, and readers.
Summary and Key Takeaways
Phoebe Cates, born July 16, 1963, is 62 years old in 2025 and will turn 63 in July 2026. She is recognized for her role in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, her ownership of The Tea Shop, and her children’s books. Reliable birth records, biographies, and interviews confirm these details. Cross-checking sources remains the best practice for validating personal facts. Her career evolution demonstrates a deliberate shift from acting to entrepreneurship and literature.