Celebrating Carol Kane: Her Life, Career, And Unbreakable Spirit
At 66, Carol Kane is as charming and delightful as ever. Fans remember her as the lovable Simka on Taxi and for her iconic roles in timeless movies like The Princess Bride and Annie Hall. Over the years, she’s worked with some of Hollywood’s biggest names, including Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton. "I’ve been incredibly fortunate to collaborate with so many talented artists," Carol has said, reflecting on her remarkable career.
Currently, the Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning actress is finishing up the final season of her beloved Netflix comedy, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. But how has she managed to thrive in the ever-changing world of Hollywood for so long? By staying grounded, cherishing what truly matters, and leaning on the wisdom of loved ones. “My mom has this great saying: ‘To continuity!’” Carol laughs. In a candid new interview with Closer Weekly (available now on newsstands), Carol opens up about her family, her choice not to have children, and the resilience that defines her. Scroll down to dive into our exclusive Q&A with Carol!
Saying Goodbye to Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Carol Shares Her Feelings
It wasn’t until just a couple of months ago that the cast of Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt learned they were filming the show’s final season. For Carol, the news was bittersweet. “I felt such sadness,” she admits, speaking on behalf of the entire core cast. “But we’ve been told there’s going to be a Kimmy movie to tie everything up in a way that Tina Fey and Robert Carlock would love.”
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View this post on InstagramRun, Lillian! Carol Kane lookin’ good at the FYC @ UCB event! #KimmySchmidt #UTVFYC
What Made Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt So Special?
What sets this show apart is the camaraderie among the cast members and the incredible support from a team of genius writers. “Netflix gave them the creative freedom to explore and innovate,” Carol explains. “That kind of trust doesn’t always happen, but I’ve been lucky with network TV, too—like my days on Taxi. It’s all about having a platform where creativity can flourish.”
Remembering Andy Kaufman: A Unique Bond
Carol’s chemistry with the late Andy Kaufman on Taxi was unforgettable. “We were so different, but we supported each other in ways that made our partnership work,” she recalls. “I used to get frustrated because he didn’t want to rehearse. He wanted everything to feel spontaneous. But we’d have deep conversations before going on stage, and by the time we performed, it was magic.”
Which Role Stands Out the Most?
Carol has played countless unforgettable characters throughout her career, but one role holds a special place in her heart: her portrayal of a Russian immigrant in the black-and-white film Hester Street. “It was such a rich, layered role,” she says. “I was nominated for an Oscar for it, and it remains one of my proudest achievements.”
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Carol with Andy Kaufman on Taxi.
A Look Back at The Princess Bride
When it comes to memorable moments from The Princess Bride, Carol lights up. “Billy Crystal was improvising constantly. Cary Elwes, who was supposed to be nearly dead, couldn’t stop laughing. And poor Mandy Patinkin tried so hard to keep a straight face that he ended up bruising a rib!” she recalls with a chuckle.
Her Lifelong Friendship with Diane Keaton
Carol and Diane Keaton have shared the screen in multiple films, including Annie Hall. Their bond extends far beyond their professional relationship. “Diane is a national treasure,” Carol says. “She’s brilliant and endlessly fascinating, with a deep passion for photography and architecture. Her spirit is unstoppable, and she’s been a constant in my life for decades.”
Other Famous Friends
Carol’s circle of friends includes some of Hollywood’s most respected figures. “Gena Rowlands is one of my closest friends. And Valerie Harper and I have been tight for over 30 years,” she shares. “We share private jokes, laugh endlessly, and always tell each other the truth. That kind of honesty is rare and precious.”
Family Ties: Artistic Roots
Both of Carol’s parents were artists—her mother, Joy Kane, was a dancer and musician who continues to compose music at 91, and her late father, Michael Kane, was an acclaimed architect. “Growing up, we were immersed in the arts,” Carol explains. “When I was eight, my sister and I moved to France for a year and a half, learning French and experiencing another culture. Later, my dad worked in Haiti, which meant more changes but also incredible growth.”
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