Sissy Spacek and Loretta Lynn are two of the most iconic names in the history of country music. Spacek won an Oscar for her portrayal of Lynn in the 1980 biopic Coal Miner’s Daughter, based on Lynn’s autobiography of the same name. But are they related by blood or just by bond? Here’s what you need to know about their relationship.
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How Sissy Spacek Became Loretta Lynn
Spacek was handpicked by Lynn herself to play her in the movie, even though the actress was initially hesitant to take on the challenging role. According to Spacek’s memoir, My Extraordinary Ordinary Life, Lynn saw a photo of Spacek and said, “That’s the girl who should play me.” She then announced it on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, without Spacek’s consent.
Spacek decided to accept the offer and immersed herself in Lynn’s life and music. She worked with Lynn to master her Appalachian accent, singing style and guitar-playing technique. Lynn encouraged Spacek to sing in the movie, rather than lip-sync, and even gave her some of her own clothes and jewelry to wear.
How Loretta Lynn Became Sissy Spacek’s Friend
The movie not only made Spacek a star, but also a lifelong friend of Lynn. The two women developed an instant rapport and a deep admiration for each other. Spacek described Lynn as a “resilient country music pioneer” and a “precious friend” in a statement following Lynn’s death on October 4, 2022.
Spacek also said that she loved playing Lynn and being her. “I had the band, I had the bus, I had the clothes, but I think we can all agree that there’s only one Loretta Lynn,” she said at the CMT Music Awards in 2018, where she accepted Lynn’s Artist of a Lifetime award on her behalf.
Lynn also praised Spacek for her performance and her friendship. She said that Spacek was “the greatest little girl in the world” and that she loved her like a daughter. She also offered Spacek one of her gowns to wear to the award show, because “that’s the kind of girlfriend she is.”
Conclusion
Sissy Spacek and Loretta Lynn are not related by blood, but by bond. They share a remarkable story of friendship that began with a movie and lasted for decades. They supported each other through highs and lows, joys and sorrows, and celebrated each other’s achievements and legacy. They are an example of how art can bring people together and create lasting connections.
