Anne Meara Quotes

Powerful Anne Meara for Daily Growth

About Anne Meara

Anne Meara (November 20, 1929 – June 23, 2009) was an American actress, comedian, and writer, known for her sharp wit, unique humor, and significant contributions to the world of stage and screen. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Meara grew up in a family with Irish roots, and it was there that she developed a love for storytelling and performance. She attended the High School of Music & Art before moving on to the prestigious Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre. In 1955, Meara met her future husband and comedy partner Jerry Stiller during an acting workshop. Together, they formed a successful comedic duo, known for their off-beat humor and improvisational style. They appeared on numerous television shows throughout the 1960s, including "The Ed Sullivan Show" and "The Steve Allen Show." Meara's career on stage was equally impressive. She made her Broadway debut in 1957 in "No Time for Sergeants," which led to roles in plays like "Woman of the Year" (1964) and "The Killing of Sister George" (1967). Her film credits include "The Honeymoon Killers" (1969), "The Out-of-Towners" (1999), and the critically acclaimed independent film "Far from Heaven" (2002). Throughout her life, Meara was known for her candidness, humor, and fierce independence. She passed away in 2009, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking work that continues to inspire comedians and actors today. Some of her most memorable quotes include: 1. "Age is a very high price to pay for maturity." 2. "I have a theory that every woman should have a Teddy Bear always in her purse. And when things get tough, you just take your Teddy Bear and squeeze it really hard." 3. "Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Age is not required to live a good life."

Anne Meara's quote underscores that one's age should not be a barrier or determinant in living a fulfilling, meaningful life. It suggests that the quality of life is independent of numerical age and emphasizes personal growth, experiences, and the pursuit of happiness as more important than hitting certain milestones or following traditional expectations based on age. Essentially, this quote encourages us to embrace life actively, regardless of our age.


"I'm not afraid of dying. Just leaving."

This quote suggests a perspective where death itself is not feared, but rather the leaving behind of loved ones, experiences, and life as it is known is what brings trepidation to Anne Meara. It underscores a deep attachment to life and its connections, expressing a hope that even in facing the inevitable end, there remains a profound desire to keep living, growing, and experiencing.


"I believe in laughing at everything, especially death."

This quote suggests a profound acceptance and resilience in the face of life's challenges, including death. By choosing to laugh at these situations, Anne Meara emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, finding joy even in difficult circumstances, and using humor as a coping mechanism. Laughter can provide relief, foster connection, and remind us that, despite the seriousness of life's events, there is always room for levity and lightness. In essence, Meara's words encourage us to find solace and strength in our ability to laugh and appreciate life, even during trying times.


"Life is what happens while you're busy making other plans."

Anne Meara's quote "Life is what happens while you're busy making other plans" highlights the unpredictability and fluidity of life. It suggests that our carefully laid-out plans can often be disrupted by events beyond our control or unexpected opportunities that arise, reminding us to remain adaptable and open to change. It emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and embracing the serendipitous moments that may bring joy, growth, or new experiences.


"I love people who make me laugh. I honestly think it's the thing I like most, to laugh. It cures a multitude of ills. It's probably the most important thing in a person."

Anne Meara emphasizes the profound impact laughter has on people, considering it a powerful healing force. She values individuals who can elicit this response because laughter, in her perspective, cures numerous problems and is crucial to maintaining a positive outlook in life. In essence, laughter, as represented by those who provoke it, plays an essential role in building connections, overcoming challenges, and fostering happiness.


I started to respect older actors when I was young and then contemporary actors later on. Then I learned respect for comedy. When I was first doing theatre, I thought of it as just a means to become Sarah Bernhardt or someone like that. But acting with young people has been a great learning experience.

- Anne Meara

Thought, Doing, Been, Great Learning

I don't drink liquor, but I do like chocolate ice cream soda.

- Anne Meara

Ice, Like, Cream, Liquor

Growing up, I loved drama and fantasies. I hated the Marx Brothers. I took all that confusion seriously.

- Anne Meara

Brothers, Took, Fantasies, Confusion

My mother loved movies, and I loved movies like she loved movies. So I wanted to do that. I'd send away for movie magazines - the old thing of everybody wanting to be a star or whatever.

- Anne Meara

Away, Everybody, Wanting, Send

I would never presume to give anyone advice.

- Anne Meara

Never, Give, Would, Presume

One time I laughed so hard, I just had to go and change my pantyhose. I lost it. Lost it. At least it wasn't onstage.

- Anne Meara

Change, Pantyhose, Laughed, One Time

I love documentaries and the computer. I am a little addicted to the computer, and that relaxes me. I find information, I shop, and I look up people I worked with to find out if they're dead or alive.

- Anne Meara

Love, Addicted, Shop, Documentaries

People never know what's going on while it's happening. You think, during the Renaissance, people called it 'The Renaissance'?

- Anne Meara

Think, Going, Renaissance, Happening

I was a dedicated, boring student. The last thing I wanted was to be a comedienne.

- Anne Meara

Boring, Last, Wanted, Dedicated

Families interest me - I'm part of one; most of us come from one. And I'm curious about the choices made in life, how they affect things, and how those choices happen.

- Anne Meara

Curious, Happen, Made, Affect

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.