Hollywood veteran Kate Linder demonstrates remarkable dedication by balancing her long-standing acting career on "The Young and the Restless" with a down-to-earth job as a flight attendant. This unusual combination, spanning over four decades, keeps her grounded and connected to reality.
Linder revealed to Us Weekly the unique nature of her schedule, juggling her acting commitments with serving passengers at 35,000 feet. She believes this duality prevents her from losing perspective amidst the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.
Starting as an anonymous maid in 1982, Linder's talent and connection with the late Jeanne Cooper led to her character, Esther Valentine, receiving a contract in 1985. Cooper, who played Katherine Chancellor, inadvertently christened the character during rehearsals.
With over 2,000 episodes under her belt and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Linder maintains a refreshing humility. She credits her dual career for keeping her grounded, observing that some individuals in the entertainment industry can become detached from reality.
Linder continues her flight attendant work with United Airlines, where she occasionally encounters surprised passengers who recognize her from the show. She recounted an amusing anecdote of a passenger’s disbelief at seeing her working a flight.
"I’ve seen a lot of people that sometimes believe their own press.” — Kate Linder
In a 2022 interview with Closer Weekly, Linder admitted her initial reluctance to reveal her flight attendant job, fearing it might impact her acting credibility. However, positive interactions with passengers changed her perspective. She finds continued fulfillment in balancing both roles effectively.
Despite playing the same character for decades, Linder emphasizes the unpredictable nature of her work on "The Young and the Restless," comparing it to the uncertainties of real life. This element of surprise keeps her engaged and enthusiastic about her role and the show.
