Early Life and Career Beginnings
- Lee Purcell started modeling at the age of three in Dallas, Texas, recruited by Neiman Marcus.
- Her childhood involved moving frequently due to her father's naval career, during which she participated in regional talent shows and began dancing professionally.
Journey to Hollywood
- At 19, Lee Purcell moved to Hollywood with minimal resources, initially working as a model due to a temporary inability to dance after a car accident.
- Despite challenges, she began training extensively in acting, singing, and dance, eventually landing her breakthrough role through auditions for Steve McQueen's "Adam at 6am."
Rodeo Experience
- In the 1990s, Lee Purcell joined a troupe on the Ben Johnson pro-celebrity rodeo circuit, participating in cutting and team penning competitions across the country.
- The rodeo events raised funds for children's charities, showcasing Lee's adventurous spirit and love for horseback riding.
Challenges and Triumphs
- Lee Purcell reflects on overcoming personal and professional challenges, including navigating Hollywood as an outsider and dealing with industry pressures.
- She emphasizes the importance of persistence and pursuing one's dreams despite setbacks and adversity.
Passion for Performing
- Lee Purcell discusses her innate passion for the arts, spanning various forms like acting, directing, and photography.
- Her current project includes a one-woman show, "My Crazy Mama," where she portrays 16 characters, highlighting her dedication to theatrical performance.
Personal Insights
- Lee Purcell shares her motivations as an artist and her unwavering drive to create and perform.
- She finds joy in laughter, particularly through friendships, comedians, and memorable experiences in theater festivals like the Edinburgh Fringe.
Living a Fantastic Life
- Lee Purcell attributes living a fantastic life to following one's passion wholeheartedly, extending kindness to others, and finding satisfaction in helping fellow artists and community members.
- She encourages individuals to identify their dreams and pursue them diligently, adapting if necessary but never losing sight of personal fulfillment.
Conclusion
- Dr. Allen Lycka wraps up the interview, highlighting Lee Purcell's inspiring journey and impactful insights on achieving personal and professional fulfillment.
- Lee Purcell's contact information and current projects are shared, inviting listeners to connect and explore her ongoing artistic endeavors.
Lee Purcell Summary
"Actress Lee Purcell: From Hollywood Stardom to Inclusive Filmmaking"
Lee Purcell, a seasoned actress with a career spanning opposite Hollywood icons like Jon Voight, Nicholas Cage, and Orson Welles, is now delving into producing and directing a virtual cast for a rendition of "War of the Worlds," aimed at benefiting the Motion Picture Home. Her recent endeavors include starring in Joey Travolta's "Carol of the Bells," where she acted alongside Donna Mills and RJ Mitte. Purcell also serves as a SAG board member, aiding industry members during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mentored by Steve McQueen, Purcell has starred alongside various leading men, including Mark Harmon, Michael Douglas, and Kirk Douglas. Notably, she completed a starring role in "Carol of the Bells," a film by Joey Travolta's Inclusion Films, notable for its inclusive approach to employing people with disabilities in the film industry. Purcell has received two Prime-Time Emmy nominations for her roles in "Long Road Home" and "Secret Sins of the Fathers."
With a diverse repertoire in film, television, and stage, Purcell's credits include roles in "Due South" and the cult classic "Valley Girl" alongside Nicholas Cage. Her career began under the mentorship of Steve McQueen in "Adam at 6 A.M." opposite Michael Douglas. Throughout her journey, she remains appreciative of McQueen's guidance and cherishes her experiences with him.