’90s It Girl Gretchen Mol Embraces Aging as a Liberating Experience for Actors

Gretchen Mol is reflecting on her life after being hailed the “It Girl” of the ‘90s.

“There are always new and exciting faces in Hollywood,” Mol, 52, shared with People in an interview published on January 4. “The cycle constantly refreshes itself. And it’s a youth-centric industry — that’s just the way it is, but I’m okay with that.”

Mol is widely recognized for her portrayal of Gillian in HBO’s Boardwalk Empire, and she has also appeared in films like Rounders, The Notorious Bettie Page, 3:10 to Yuma, and Manchester by the Sea.

“I believe that aging as an actor actually liberates you. You gain wisdom and experience through both ups and downs, and the stakes feel less daunting,” Mol revealed. “Now, it’s more about enjoying the journey and the process of creation, rather than worrying about others’ perceptions of the outcome or what they’ll say about you.”

Since being named the quintessential “It Girl” by Vanity Fair in 1998, Mol’s career has slowed significantly. She relocated from New York City to the Berkshires during the COVID-19 pandemic, choosing to stay there with her husband Tod Williams to raise their two teenage children: 17-year-old son Ptolemy and 14-year-old daughter Winter.

“We still visit the city when necessary, but the kids attend school locally,” Mol stated to People. “We’ve discovered a small, wonderful community here. I know the jobs of most people around me; they understand what I do. It’s refreshing to know everyone’s names and to be surrounded by genuinely good people.”

Mol noted that her children aren’t particularly interested in her past achievements. “Vanity Fair, in particular, held significance in a way my kids wouldn’t grasp if I tried to explain it; they’d just respond, ‘What?’” she explained.

Currently, Mol stars in Ed Burns’ new film, Millers in Marriage, which depicts an aging, once-famous rock star navigating her second act amid a failing marriage.

“It’s conversations I have with friends,” Mol said regarding the script, which resonated with her experience in a phase of life when her children require less of her attention than before.

“I was lucky to continue working while raising children, but my focus has shifted,” Mol added. “Now, I have the opportunity to consider those projects I’ve always wanted to pursue.”