Who Is Darlene Cates? Age, Biography and Wiki
Darlene Cates was born on December 13, 1947, in Borger, Texas, USA. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Bonnie in the 1993 film "What's Eating Gilbert Grape," where she acted opposite Johnny Depp and Leonardo DiCaprio. Cates was celebrated not only for her talent but for bringing visibility to body diversity in the entertainment industry, advocating for plus-size representation. Throughout her life, she faced and overcame many challenges, including health issues related to her weight and other personal struggles.
In 2025, what would have been her 78th birthday, fans and followers continue to celebrate her legacy and commitment to authenticity, which continues to resonate with audiences today.
| Occupation | Actress |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 13, 1947 |
| Age | 69 Years |
| Birth Place | Borger, Texas, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 26 March, 2017 |
| Died Place | Forney, Texas, U.S. |
Popularity
Darlene Cates's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Standing at 5 feet 7 inches tall, Darlene Cates often reflected on the challenges of living in a society that places a high value on conventional beauty standards. Throughout her life, her weight fluctuated, but she was known to embrace her body, becoming an inspiration for many who face similar struggles. Though exact figures regarding her measurements are not publicly documented, what remains clear is her positive influence in promoting self-love and acceptance.
While Robert was deployed on two 13 month tours in Vietnam, Cates began eating as a comfort. In combination with a thyroid condition and slow metabolism, the overeating led to substantial weight gains.
In 1986, pelvic infections caused by her excess weight kept her bedridden for two years, during which she gained an additional 149 lb, weighing almost 600 lb in total. Cates suffered from depression and suicidal thoughts, resulting from her weight, and lived in reclusion.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Darlene Cates was married to her husband, who she often referred to affectionately in interviews. While specific details about her personal relationships are scarce, Cates often shared her love for her family. She had children and viewed her family as one of her greatest sources of support throughout her career. There have been no public indications of significant relationships since her husband, but her legacy lives on through her children and the impact she made in the arts.
Rita Darlene Cates (née Guthrie; December 13, 1947 – March 26, 2017) was an American actress. She became known for her role in the 1993 film What's Eating Gilbert Grape, in which she played the title character's housebound mother.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of her passing in 2017, Darlene Cates had a net worth estimated between $1 million and $5 million. Her income came from various acting roles, reality television appearances, and speaking engagements. Following her passing, her estate has continued to inspire philanthropic efforts, raising awareness about body positivity and mental health.
Career, Business and Investments
Darlene Cates began her career in the early 1990s, but it was her performance in "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" that catapulted her to fame. She also appeared on several television shows, including "The Doctor" and "The Oprah Winfrey Show," where she shared her personal journey and advocated for body positivity.
In addition to acting, Darlene worked as a motivational speaker, sharing her story to empower others suffering from weight-related issues. While she did not have significant investments, her work in advocacy can be seen as a form of investment in her community and future generations.
In 2012, Cates had lost 240 lb after a series of health issues in 2010 kept her hospitalized for nearly a year, and she expressed a desire to resume her acting career.
Social Network
Darlene Cates, although not active on social media during her lifetime, has a dedicated fanbase that continues to celebrate her existence online. Several fan-created pages and groups honor her memory and promote body positivity. These platforms serve as a way for fans to connect with each other, share stories, and promote the values that Darlene cherished.
Leonardo DiCaprio, who portrayed her son in 1993's What's Eating Gilbert Grape, posted a tribute to Facebook, stating Cates was "the best acting mom [he] ever had the privilege of working alongside. Her endearing personality and incredible talent will live on in the memories of those who knew her, and those who loved her work."
Education
Details about Darlene Cates' formal education are limited. However, her life experiences and the challenges she faced contributed significantly to her wisdom and empathetic approach to acting and advocacy. Cates emphasized the importance of personal growth through self-acceptance, encouraging others to pursue their dreams without being hindered by societal expectations.
Cates met Robert Cates, a U.S. Marine, when she was 14 and the two married on January 11, 1963 – she was 15 and he was 25. Cates claimed that she lied about her age to Robert, only revealing she was not 18 on the night before their wedding. They had one daughter, Sheri Ann, and two sons, Mark and Chris.
She had four grandchildren and lived in Forney, Texas. In 1992, she received her high school diploma via correspondence courses.
Conclusion
Darlene Cates' legacy remains cherished by fans and the entertainment industry alike. In 2025, as we reflect on her life, we remember her contributions to cinema and the powerful message of self-love and acceptance she promoted throughout her career. Although she may no longer be with us, her impact endures in the hearts and minds of many.
