Phoebe Cates, a name that still brings a smile to the faces of 80s movie lovers, was born on July 16, 1963, in New York City. That date is more than just a number on a calendar—it’s a key part of what makes her such a beloved figure in pop culture. Whether you remember her from “Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” “Gremlins,” or any of her other memorable roles, knowing when she was born helps paint a clearer picture of her journey.

So, why does her birth date matter? For starters, it gives fans a way to connect with her on a more personal level. It also helps in understanding the era she came up in, the trends she influenced, and how she became such a big name in Hollywood. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about context, history, and nostalgia.

If you're curious about Phoebe Cates, her life, or even how old she is today, you’re in the right place. We’re diving into her birth date, her background, and a whole lot more. Let’s get started.

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Table of Contents

• Biography of Phoebe Cates
• Personal Details & Bio Data
• Career Highlights and Major Roles
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of Phoebe Cates

Phoebe Belle Cates Kline, better known simply as Phoebe Cates, is an American former actress, model, and entrepreneur. Born on July 16, 1963, in New York City, she rose to fame in the 1980s with a string of unforgettable performances in classic films like Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982), Gremlins (1984), and Drop Dead Fred (1991).

She was part of the wave of teen stars that defined the decade, and her roles left a lasting impact on 80s pop culture. Her natural charm, relatable looks, and solid acting chops helped her stand out in a sea of big names and blockbuster movies. Even though she stepped back from acting in the 90s, her legacy lives on through reruns, reboots, and the memories of her fans.

Phoebe didn’t just play characters—she brought them to life in ways that made them unforgettable. From Linda Barrett’s iconic pool scene in Fast Times to her role as Kate in Gremlins, Cates carved out a special place in Hollywood history. Learn more about her early life and rise to stardom on our site.

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Personal Details & Bio Data

Career Highlights and Major Roles

Phoebe Cates' career took off in the early 80s, and it didn’t take long for her to become a household name. Her breakout role came in 1982 with Fast Times at Ridgemont High, where she played Linda Barrett, a role that became instantly iconic, especially after that unforgettable pool scene.

She followed that up with a starring role in the 1984 cult classic Gremlins, where she played Kate Beringer opposite Zach Galligan’s Billy Peltzer. The film was a massive hit and is still celebrated today as one of the best creature-comedies of all time. She also returned for the sequel, Gremlins 2: The New Batch, in 1990.

Another standout performance was in Drop Dead Fred, a quirky comedy where she played a woman haunted by her childhood imaginary friend. Though it wasn’t a box office smash at the time, it’s since gained a cult following and is often cited by fans as one of her most underrated roles.

• 1982 – Fast Times at Ridgemont High
• 1984 – Gremlins
• 1985 – Fright Night (cameo)
• 1986 – The Sure Thing
• 1990 – Gremlins 2: The New Batch
• 1991 – Drop Dead Fred

Phoebe eventually stepped away from the spotlight to focus on her family and personal life, but her work continues to resonate with fans old and new. You can explore more about her filmography and personal life right here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Phoebe Cates’ birth date?

Phoebe Cates was born on July 16, 1963, in New York City. That makes her a Cancer in astrology, a sign often associated with emotional depth, intuition, and loyalty—traits that many fans feel she brought to her roles.

Is Phoebe Cates still acting?

Not really. While she made a few appearances in the 90s, she mostly stepped away from acting to focus on her family and other business ventures. She’s been spotted at events and interviews over the years, but you won’t find her in any new films these days.

Who is Phoebe Cates married to?

Phoebe is married to actor Kevin Kline. The couple tied the knot in 1989 and have two children together. They’ve been one of Hollywood’s more private but enduring marriages, which is pretty rare these days. You can learn more about her personal life and career here.

Why Her Birth Date Matters

Knowing Phoebe Cates’ birth date—July 16, 1963—might seem like a small detail, but it’s actually pretty telling. Born in the early 60s, she grew up right in the middle of a cultural shift, which influenced her acting style, the types of roles she was offered, and how audiences connected with her.

Being born in the 60s also means she came of age in the 70s and broke into Hollywood in the 80s—the perfect timing to be part of that decade’s movie magic. So, when you look at her birth date, you're really looking at the beginning of a journey that shaped a generation’s idea of cool.

If you're a fan or just curious about 80s cinema, knowing when Phoebe was born helps you understand where she was coming from, both personally and professionally. It’s more than just a date—it’s a piece of the puzzle that is her life and career.

Want to know more? You can read more about her here on Biography.com.