In the 1980s, this striking woman was an upcoming Hollywood star. During her heyday, she received three Academy Awards, but then she faded into obscurity.
In An Officer and a Gentleman, Naval Officer Zack Mayo, played by Richard Gere, sweeps factory worker Paula, played by Debra Winger, off her feet in a legendary romantic scene. This iconic moment made Winger the envy of many fans. Today, Winger, 67, still captivates with her beauty, sharing photos on Instagram showcasing her natural gray hair.
Winger’s career began with her role in Slumber Party ‘57 (1976) and continued with her part as Drusilla in Wonder Woman (1979). Concerned about typecasting, she declined further appearances. The early ‘80s were a golden era for Winger, with acclaimed roles in Urban Cowboy (1980), An Officer and a Gentleman (1982), and Terms of Endearment (1983).
Despite her success, Winger took a hiatus from Hollywood, partly due to rumored feuds with co-stars. Louis Gossett Jr. noted, “The onscreen chemistry between the two of them was terrific, but it was a different story once the camera was turned off.” Winger reportedly described Gere as “a brick wall” and director Taylor Hackford as “animal.” These tensions contributed to her complex legacy in Hollywood.
