Kate Winslet Reveals Her Family Has Never Watched The Holiday Film

Kate Winslet has revealed that her family never watches the popular Christmas film "The Holiday," despite its widespread reputation as a festive favorite. The actress firmly stated, "No, we haven’t seen The Holiday for years," explaining that they avoid films she stars in, including her own.

Winslet shared that watching finished projects is often a painful experience for actors. She said, "Almost everything I’ve been in I’ve only seen once," highlighting the discomfort actors feel reviewing their own performances.

The topic surfaced as Winslet discussed her new Christmas film, Goodbye June, which marks her first festive movie in nearly two decades. Written by her son Joe Anders, the film was inspired by her late mother’s battle with ovarian cancer. It centers on siblings putting aside differences to honor their mother during palliative care at Christmas.

Winslet emphasized that Goodbye June isn’t about death but celebrates life. She described it as "very, very uplifting," making it suitable viewing on Christmas Eve when it premieres on Netflix.

In addition to starring alongside Dame Helen Mirren and other acclaimed actors, Goodbye June is Winslet’s directorial debut. After years of contemplating directing, she felt now was the right moment as her children are older. Winslet noted, "I’ve been a mum since I was 25, and that was my priority alongside acting."

She also addressed the challenges female directors face, acknowledging widespread skepticism about their capabilities. Drawing from her 33 years in front of the camera, Winslet feels prepared behind it. "I’ve learnt everything," she said, stressing the importance of more women entering directing to change industry culture.

Winslet also spoke about her children’s careers in film. Both her son Joe and daughter Mia have chosen to work under different surnames to make their own marks. She found the "nepo baby" label offensive and insisted her children are not receiving unwarranted advantages.

"The film would have been made with or without me," Winslet insisted, praising the strength of Joe’s script. She encourages her children to "follow your heart" and warns against paying attention to "silly terms" like nepotism.

Goodbye June is currently available in cinemas and on Netflix from Christmas Eve. Meanwhile, The Holiday remains accessible on BBC iPlayer for those who wish to revisit the festive classic.