Interview: June Squibb Talks About Becoming a Bonafide Action Star in ‘Thelma’

Actress June Squibb is a beloved character actress who has been steadily working for 73 years in theater, television, and film, popping up on screens big and small in supporting roles in Meet Joe Black, About Schmidt, Shameless, and Girls.

In 2013, she gained attention and acclaim with her scene-stealing role in the 2013 film Nebraska. The Alexander Payne film earned Squibb her first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, proving that the highest of highs of this industry may come when you at least expect it.

At 94, Squibb continues to defy expectations, even her own, “I thought, ‘Would I still be working at 94?’ It’s amazing to me. So, I’m thrilled with it all happening.”

One of the most surprising turns in film this year was seeing Squibb, a self-proclaimed “rule breaker,” in her first leading role and as a bonafide action star in Thelma this past summer. In ‘Thelma,’ June plays the titular role of a sweet and, at times, sassy grandmother who gets scammed into forking over thousands of dollars after scammers convince her over the phone that her grandson has been arrested and needs her help. Thelma takes matters into her own hands and rides on her speedy scooter to get her money back while escaping her concerned family. Joey had very kind words for the film and the performance here.

June brings warmth, quick-witted delivery, emotional depth, and her own stunts to the film. It’s a heartfelt performance that gives a voice to the voiceless and should have Squibb at the top of everyone’s lists.

Awards Radar sat down with June Squibb to discuss her time in Hollywood, working with the late Richard Roundtree in his final role, and breaking all the rules of Hollywood.