At 65 years old, Annette Bening continues to defy age by portraying long distance swimmer Diana Nyad, earning her Oscar nomination rumors. Married to Hollywood legend Warren Beatty for 31 years, with four adult children, Bening’s empty nest provided her with the time to prepare for her role in Nyad’s life. SENIOR PLANET interviews four-time Oscar nominee, Annette Bening:
Q: What inspired you about Diana Nyad?
BENING: What’s so cool about Diana is that she decided to do this when she was 60 which is really weird and unusual. I find that truly inspiring.
Q: The film is based on Nyad’s 2016 book, Find a Way. What can we learn from her?
BENING: It’s a metaphor that we all need, be it solving a particular problem or improving our relationships with our loved ones. You’re always trying to find a way to get there.
Q: Did you have any second thoughts once you got in the water?
BENING: I had to build myself up – not just physically, but emotionally too.
Q: Have you always been athletic?
BENING: I have always enjoyed yoga and other physical activities since I was 20 years old. It has always been a necessary part of my life.
Q: Do you still swim today or did you stop after all the intense training?
BENING: I still swim every day for three hours. It makes me feel better and has helped me become a better swimmer than when I was making the film.
Q: Who are your role models in life?
BENING: My parents for sure. I think that we all are trying to find a way to deal with what we have and my parents have been a great influence in my life.
Q: What’s your secret to aging with attitude?
BENING: Honestly, it’s the swimming. It gives you energy for sure.
In the film, Annette Bening portrays Nyad’s best friend and swim coach Bonnie Stoll. She discusses the challenges of portraying such a powerful swimmer and the importance of showing Diana and Bonnie’s friendship as a source of strength. Moreover, Bening shares that swimming has been beneficial to her wellbeing, providing energy and balance in her life.
