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Michelle Williams Reflects on ‘Brokeback Mountain’ Success and Film’s Profound Impact
Actress Michelle Williams revealed that the 2005 acclaimed film Brokeback Mountain was destined for success based on a unique observation during its press tour. In a recent interview on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, Williams shared insights into the movie’s significant cultural resonance, noting the emotional reactions it evoked even before its wide release. This revelation highlights the enduring legacy of Brokeback Mountain and its impact on audiences.
Early Hints of ‘Brokeback Mountain’s’ Special Significance
During her appearance on the show, Williams recounted to host Andy Cohen the moment she realized Brokeback Mountain would deeply affect viewers. “I recall participating in the press junket, and it’s rare to witness grown men openly expressing emotion. That specific moment made us collectively understand the film’s potential to resonate deeply with people,” she explained.
The Cast and Story of ‘Brokeback Mountain’
Brokeback Mountain featured a stellar cast, including Jake Gyllenhaal and the late Heath Ledger, Williams’ former partner. They portrayed Jack Twist and Ennis Del Mar, characters entangled in a clandestine romantic relationship spanning two decades. Williams and Anne Hathaway played the roles of their respective wives in the film, which explored themes of love, loss, and societal constraints.
Personal Connection and Tragedy
Williams and Ledger’s personal relationship began in 2004. They welcomed their daughter, Matilda, in 2005 before separating in 2007. Tragically, Heath Ledger passed away in 2008 due to an accidental overdose, several months after their separation.
Oscar Snub and Ang Lee’s Account
Cohen voiced his disappointment over Brokeback Mountain not receiving the Best Picture Oscar, an award that ultimately went to Crash. Echoing this sentiment, in 2024, Brokeback Mountain director Ang Lee disclosed that he was instructed to remain backstage at the Academy Awards ceremony after winning Best Director. The instruction was given because it was widely anticipated that Brokeback Mountain would also secure the Best Picture honor.
Lee recounted to IndieWire, “After receiving my award, which preceded the biggest one, I was directed to stay put. They told me, ‘Stay here. That’s your mark. Everyone assumes you will win, so stay at that mark.’” He further described the tense moments leading up to the announcement: “Right next to the stage was the curtain. The next was best picture. ‘Stay here, just stay here,’ they repeated.” Lee witnessed Jack Nicholson opening the envelope and recalled his internal turmoil. “I saw Jack Nicholson, his profile, he opened the envelope, and I go, ‘Oh my God, oh my God.’ It felt like an eternity—around ten seconds—before he finally announced, ‘Crash.’”
Michelle Williams’ Current Project: ‘Dying for Sex’
Currently, Williams stars in the Hulu series Dying for Sex, which premiered on Friday, April 4. The show centers on her character, Molly Kochan, embarking on a journey of sexual exploration following a terminal cancer diagnosis. Jenny Slate co-stars as Nikki Boyer, Kochan’s close friend.
The series draws inspiration from the podcast of the same name, which chronicled the true story of Molly Kochan, who passed away in 2019.
“The podcast deeply moved me—it truly captivated my heart, and I felt compelled to respond. I was reduced to tears,” Williams revealed in a Women’s Health interview published on Friday. “I couldn’t fully articulate the profound impact it had on me. I listened to it again; again, I was in tears. There was a profound connection that I felt obligated to acknowledge.”