Gillian Anderson's Secret Fear: Why She Almost Became a Marine Biologist

Gillian Anderson once seriously considered becoming a marine biologist before pursuing acting. Surprisingly, she had this career ambition despite being terrified of the ocean and not being a strong swimmer. The X-Files star also admits to struggling with modern technology, which contrasts with her tech executive role in Tron: Ares. Anderson hopes her new sci-fi film will help her bond with her two sons who are huge science fiction fans.

Key Points: Gillian Anderson Marine Biology Dream Despite Thalassophobia

  • Anderson wanted to be marine biologist despite having thalassophobia
  • She admits to still being uncomfortable swimming out of her depth
  • The actress struggles with modern technology despite Tron role
  • She hopes new sci-fi film will connect with her sci-fi loving sons
3 min read

Thalassophobic Gillian Anderson wanted to be marine biologist

X-Files star Gillian Anderson reveals she nearly became a marine biologist despite her fear of the sea and discusses her new role in Tron: Ares.

"Before I went to drama school, I seriously looked into it - which was weird because I was scared of the sea - Gillian Anderson"

Los Angeles, Nov 3

Hollywood actress Gillian Anderson once harboured the dream of becoming marine biologist before she found her calling in acting.

What's interesting is that she wanted to become a marine biologist despite being terrified of the sea, reports 'Female First UK'.

The 57-year-old actress, who became interested in theatre as a teenager, admitted she is still not a strong swimmer. The actress told Britain's HELLO! magazine, "Before I went to drama school, I seriously looked into it - which was weird because I was scared of the sea. Even now, I'm one of those people who doesn't like to swim out of my depth".

Another thing the actress is not good at is technology. She shared, "I have a computer, I have a phone, and I can use them up to a point. But anything more than that, all the new apps and stuff, I have no idea."

As per 'Female First UK', it is a far cry from her 'Tron: Ares' alter ego Elisabeth Dillinger, the daughter of Ed Dillinger, the villain in 1982's 'Tron', as she is a technology industry boss.

Asked how the third instalment in the Tron series is relevant to the technology landscape in today's world, Gillian said, "I think it's completely relevant. "Where Elisabeth is coming from and what she is warning of is exactly what we are facing in the world today with AI, in terms of creativity and everything else".

'Tron: Ares', which was released on October 10, is centred on humans first encountering artificial intelligence (AI) beings, and then a complex programme called Ares, leaves the digital world as it embarks on a dangerous mission in the real world.

Speaking about what she thinks of AI, Gillian said, "It concerns me, concerns us all, I think". The Hollywood legend hopes Tron: Ares will make her relationship with her sci-fi-obsessed sons, Oscar, 19, and Felix, 17, who she has with her ex-partner Mark Griffiths, stronger.

Gillian, who also has a 32-year-old daughter named Piper with her ex-husband Clyde Klotz, said, "They love sci-fi, and I haven't really done anything in this genre since The X-Files, so it's fun to be able to share this with them".

"I'm a huge sci-fi fan - it's a genre I know well - so it feels good to be a part of something as well-loved, interesting and spectacular as 'Tron: Ares'. "I can't wait for everyone to see it", she added.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Interesting how her personal fears contrast with her professional roles. From marine biology dreams to sci-fi movies - quite a journey! The AI concerns she mentions are very relevant to India's growing tech landscape too.
A
Arjun K
As someone who also can't swim well, I totally understand her fear of deep water. It's nice to see celebrities being open about their limitations. The mother-son bonding over sci-fi is heartwarming! ❤️
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Sarah B
While I appreciate her honesty, it's a bit concerning that someone in a tech-heavy film industry isn't more comfortable with technology. In today's digital India, basic tech literacy is becoming essential for everyone.
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Kavya N
Her story reminds me of how many Indian parents want their children to become doctors or engineers, but the kids follow their passion instead. Sometimes the road not taken becomes our biggest "what if" story!
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Michael C
The AI discussion is particularly relevant for India's booming tech sector. It's good to see Hollywood addressing these concerns through entertainment. Looking forward to watching Tron: Ares with my tech-obsessed nephews!

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