Sally Kellerman Quotes

Powerful Sally Kellerman for Daily Growth

About Sally Kellerman

Sally Kellerman, born on November 2, 1937, in Long Beach, California, was an acclaimed American actress known for her versatile roles in film, television, and stage. Raised in a Jewish family, she developed an early interest in acting and began her career with the Actors Studio in New York City. Kellerman made her film debut in 1962 in 'Tender is the Night,' but it was her role as Margaret 'Hot Lips' Houlihan in the 1970 military comedy-drama 'M*A*S*H' that brought her widespread recognition. Her portrayal of the sharp-tongued army nurse earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress and cemented her place as a cultural icon of the 1970s. Throughout her career, Kellerman showcased her vocal talents in numerous musical roles. She appeared on Broadway in 'Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris' and voiced characters in animated films such as 'The Little Mermaid,' 'Anastasia,' and 'Mulan.' Kellerman continued to act in films and television, including notable roles in 'Slap Shot,' 'Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice,' 'Back to the Future Part III,' and 'Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.' Her last role was in the 2017 film 'The Last Word,' marking a career spanning over five decades. In her personal life, Kellerman was open about her battle with alcoholism and her subsequent sobriety. She was married twice and had one daughter, Drew Aspelos. Sally Kellerman passed away on June 24, 2017, at the age of 84, leaving behind a rich legacy in American entertainment. Her memorable quotes reflect her wit, resilience, and zest for life: "I'm an actress. I'm not supposed to be perfect; I'm supposed to be interesting," and "Life is too short to be little."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I think age is a very sensitive thing, and I'm not going to talk about it."

This quote by Sally Kellerman suggests that she considers the topic of age as delicate or sensitive, and prefers not to discuss it. It indicates an awareness of the potential impact age can have on one's identity, self-worth, and overall perception in society, prompting her to maintain a cautious approach when discussing this aspect of herself.


"I never said 'no' to anything because there was always something to learn from it."

This quote suggests that Sally Kellerman embraces opportunities for growth and learning, even when they are challenging or uncomfortable. By not rejecting new experiences, she opens herself up to a diverse range of knowledge and skills. This approach encourages personal development and fosters resilience. It also implies an adventurous spirit and a willingness to take risks in the pursuit of wisdom.


"It's so much easier to play the bitch than to play the nice girl."

Sally Kellerman's quote suggests that it may be more straightforward or less challenging for an actress, in her career, to portray a character who is aggressive, selfish, or unkind (the 'bitch') rather than one who is compassionate, kind, or selfless ('the nice girl'). The implication is that society tends to stereotype 'nice' characters as being passive, boring, or predictable, while 'bitch' characters have more complexity and nuance, making them potentially more interesting to play. This quote offers a critique of gender norms in storytelling, suggesting that women are often confined to overly simplistic roles based on their perceived niceness.


"You know you're getting old when your back goes out more than you do."

This quote by Sally Kellerman humorously conveys the experience of aging, specifically the physical changes that occur as one grows older. In particular, it highlights the increasing likelihood of back problems or discomfort, a common issue for many elderly individuals, becoming more frequent than engaging in activities oneself. It's a relatable and humorous observation about the realities of aging, striking a chord with those who have experienced similar feelings.


"Aging is not for sissies."

This quote by Sally Kellerman highlights the challenges and resilience required in the journey of growing older. It suggests that aging, with its attendant physical and emotional changes, is a significant and often difficult process, not to be taken lightly. It's a reminder that as we age, we may face various trials, but we should face them bravely, just like a "sissy" would confront challenges. The quote acknowledges the strength and determination needed to navigate the complexities of aging gracefully.


I work out, I go to pilates, I walk and I eat everything I can get my hands on.

- Sally Kellerman

Work, Hands, Go, Pilates

I hope to have some more cracks at some wonderful roles before I go to the Great Beyond.

- Sally Kellerman

More, Some, Before, Cracks

I was also the romantic lead in The Boston Strangler - I was the only one that lived to tell the story - so I called myself the romantic lead.

- Sally Kellerman

Myself, Boston, Tell, Romantic Lead

I remember working with Rod, though, on Chrysler Hour. I was too young and dumb to know that I was supposed to be scared of anybody or anything - like getting fired or anything like that.

- Sally Kellerman

I Remember, Fired, Though, Scared

It hasn't been smooth or delightful every minute, there were lean years and rough years, but it's been exciting and good and I'm thrilled to be an actress and a singer and to have spent my life this way.

- Sally Kellerman

My Life, Been, Actress, Thrilled

I'm very close with Bob and his lovely, fabulous wife Catherine, too.

- Sally Kellerman

Lovely, Very, His, Catherine

He wasn't directing it, of course, so I didn't work with Hitchcock.

- Sally Kellerman

Work, Course, He, Directing

My friends always said that I should be a comedienne - I was named my class clown.

- Sally Kellerman

Always, Class Clown, Named, Class

And he was going to give me a song, because I'm a singer and I wanted to sing in everything.

- Sally Kellerman

Song, Give, Singer, Give Me

Well, it was the beginning of my film career. It was amazing to me that I got nominated for an Academy Award.

- Sally Kellerman

Beginning, Career, Film, Award

I was always playing the hard-bitten drunk.

- Sally Kellerman

Always, Playing, Drunk

I got more bands and went on the road and turn down more movies than you would believe.

- Sally Kellerman

Believe, Turn, More, Bands

No, I don't belong to a retirement community.

- Sally Kellerman

Community, Belong, Retirement

I wasn't a businesswoman, so I didn't know how to build a career.

- Sally Kellerman

Career, Build, How, Businesswoman

I was an idiot in terms of career-building, but I had a great time.

- Sally Kellerman

Great Time, Had, Terms, Idiot

I was in group therapy for years but it wasn't the same thing. It was more about growing.

- Sally Kellerman

Growing, Same, Same Thing, Therapy

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