Viola Davis has been ranked the most fabulous Gen X actress in Hollywood, but the acclaimed performer says there was once "no evidence of greatness" in her life. The 61-year-old landed the No. 1 position on AARP's Movies for Grownups list of the 25 Most Fabulous Gen X Actresses.
Charlize Theron, Halle Berry, Penélope Cruz and Drew Barrymore completed the top five, while other major names such as Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Lopez, Cate Blanchett and Salma Hayek also earned spots. For Davis, the honor reflects a journey that began in poverty and eventually led her to some of the most celebrated roles of her generation.
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Davis spoke candidly to AARP's Movies for Grownups about growing up as one of six children in condemned apartments. The actress has previously discussed searching through garbage cans for food and living in rat-infested homes.
"I grew up in abject poverty," she told the publication. "There was no evidence of greatness in my life. So I had to have magic … I had to dare to ask the big, big question: 'What if, Viola? What if there's something out there for you?'"

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Sometimes the most memorable part of an outfit is hidden underneath. Designers have increasingly used contrasting linings to introduce unexpected flashes of color, transforming capes, coats, gowns and dramatic trains whenever they move. From Cate Blanchett to Anne Hathaway, several stars have demonstrated how a carefully chosen interior shade can turn an elegant red carpet look into something far more surprising.
Cate Blanchett delivered a memorable example at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival premiere of The Apprentice. Her custom Haider Ackermann for Jean Paul Gaultier strapless creation appeared predominantly black from the front, but revealed contrasting shades from other angles. A blush pink back and emerald green lining emerged as Blanchett lifted the train, giving the sophisticated design an unexpected injection of color.
Brie Larson used the same idea for superhero glamour at the London premiere of Captain Marvel. Her vivid blue Valentino gown featured an off the shoulder neckline, sculpted bodice and flowing cape. Hidden inside that cape was a shimmering gold lining, creating a dramatic metallic flash whenever the fabric moved. Nicole Kidman took a bolder approach at the New York premiere of Expats, where her sleek black Versace gown revealed a vivid lime green interior through its dramatic thigh high slit.
Helen Mirren offered a softer interpretation at the 2024 Golden Globes. Wearing Dolce & Gabbana, she paired an elegant lavender gown with a matching coat featuring voluminous sleeves. The coat's pink interior became visible as it opened, introducing another pastel shade while maintaining the sophistication of the overall look. Instead of competing with the lavender exterior, the contrasting lining gave the ensemble additional depth.
Anne Hathaway also embraced the technique with a playful maternity look at the Los Angeles premiere of The Last Thing He Wanted. Her custom Prabal Gurung ensemble centered on a blue satin high low top with a striking red interior. Paired with relaxed jeans and pointed red shoes, the contrasting colors framed her silhouette while bringing an unconventional energy to maternity dressing.

#contrasting #blanchett #look #cate

Cate Blanchett gave her stamp of approved to the latest casual takes on quiet luxury with her coordinated Givenchy look at BFI Southbank's screening and Q&A of the 1966 Ingmar Bergman film "Persona" in London on Tuesday.
Cate Blanchett
The two-time Oscar-winning actress turned to the French luxury fashion house for her pared back look. Comprising a denim midi skirt and white ****** on-down collared blouse with billowing three-quarter-length sleeves, the outfit was paired with platform Hogan sneakers for an extra casual element.
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