Rosanna Arquette is an American actress, director, and activist hailing from the gritty streets of New York City. Born into a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry, she carries the legacy of her siblings—Patricia, David, Richmond, and the late Alexis Arquette—all actors themselves. Her father, Lewis Arquette, was an actor and director, and her grandfather, Cliff Arquette, was a comedian.
Starting her acting career in the 1970s, Rosanna quickly gained recognition, showcasing an extraordinary versatility and depth that set her apart. Her roles in iconic films like “Desperately Seeking Susan,” “After Hours,” “Pulp Fiction,” and “The Big Blue” have solidified her place in cinematic history.
But Rosanna Arquette is more than just an actress. She is a fearless advocate for numerous causes. Passionate about environmental issues, she tirelessly fights against pollution and advocates for sustainable practices. Her commitment to social justice extends to the homeless community; helping thousands of families with essential needs and job assistance.
Arquette’s dedication to women’s rights is equally formidable.
An outspoken advocate, she has used her platform to address sexual harassment and abuse in the entertainment industry, becoming one of the brave women who publicly accused Harvey Weinstein, thus amplifying the #MeToo movement.
Now, the BAFTA Award winner and Emmy Award nominee sits down with founder and publisher, Derek Warburton, to discuss why celebrating Pride is essential in today’s social climate. Her insights, drawn from a lifetime of activism and authenticity, promise to be as compelling as her storied career.
Who is the true you and how do you identify with your own truth?
The true me has been a journey of discovery and rediscovery. Reflecting on my life, I realize that while I’ve always strived to be authentic, there were times, especially during my long marriage, when I couldn’t fully live out my true self. For many reasons, I felt closed off and unable to express who I genuinely am, which was a dangerous and stifling experience.
Emerging from that period has been liberating. I’ve reconnected with my love for music and surrounded myself with a diverse circle of incredible people from all walks of life. Embracing and celebrating everyone in my life has brought me immense joy. Now, I can truly live in authenticity and joy, something I cherish deeply.
Do you think that Alexis felt always her true self even before she transitioned?
Alexis felt her true self when she transitioned, embodying a life of truth and authenticity. She had many sides: a hilarious humanitarian who brought joy and care to those around her, the wicked bitchy side if someone brought that out of her and someone who could be sharp and cutting when needed, never afraid to speak her mind.
Alexis was authentic throughout her life, honestly. When she came out, she was able too without fear or care what other people thought. She was able to just live in our truth and didn’t matter what that was, it was just good. Alexis is probably the most authentic person I’ve ever met in my life and a lot of great lessons about centricity not living in fear of that.
Celebrating Pride Month is essential, especially in times when rights are under threat. Alexis, like many, experienced darkness and challenges, but ultimately, she was about love. This core belief in love is something that resonates deeply within my entire family and the way we were raised. No matter what, we must continue to celebrate and uphold the dignity and rights of all human beings.
What are you most passionate about?
I am deeply passionate about doing everything we can to save our democracy and protect our planet. These issues are intertwined because losing our democracy will lead to continued environmental poisoning and pollution. It’s terrifying that many toxic chemicals banned in other countries are still used here. For instance, a pesticide banned for 17 years was reintroduced by the Trump administration, which feeds into the pharmaceutical industry’s interests. It’s all connected.
Private citizens must step up because the government often moves too slowly and inefficiently. I’ve seen firsthand how private efforts can be more effective.
When do you feel your most authentic?
I feel most authentic when I’m surrounded by genuinely valid and sincere people. In an industry often marked by inauthenticity, I’m grateful to have cultivated friendships with incredibly genuine individuals who truly care about others. This environment of authenticity and mutual care allows me to express my true self and reinforces my commitment to giving back.
Giving back is an integral part of who I am, a value deeply ingrained in me by my family. My parents raised me with the principle of contributing to others, and this upbringing influences every aspect of my life, from my art to my relationships. It’s through this lens of authenticity and generosity that I strive to make a meaningful impact.
Why is your voice important? I believe it’s crucial to use my voice because each of us is born with one, and we must learn to use it effectively. This isn’t just about singing or music, but about expressing what we believe and speaking the truth. Always speaking from the heart is essential to me. I can easily sense dishonesty, and I teach my daughter the importance of honesty, emphasizing that it’s always better to be truthful, no matter the circumstances. For me, honesty embodies true love and respect.
Alexis’ voice was a beacon of truth. I often feel her presence, along with my mother’s, through signs in nature like butterflies, dragonflies, and hummingbirds. These signs remind me of their spirits, especially during the difficult times I’ve faced over the past two and a half years. Rebuilding myself and finding my true self again has been a challenging journey.
In our ever-changing industry, it’s more important than ever to go within, stay real, and maintain peace and calm. By calming our nervous systems, we can truly be our most authentic selves.
Rosanna Arquette’s raw truth, dedication to authenticity, honesty, and activism is truly inspiring. A genuine soul and beacon of hope, she encourages everyone to use their voice and experiences to make a positive impact on the world. Her unwavering commitment to justice and truth makes her not only a celebrated actress but a powerful force for change. Arquette continues to inspire us all to stand up, speak out, and strive for a more inclusive and equitable.
