Charlize Theron Says Father's Violent Death Made Her A Successful Actress

[Brian Damage]

Charlize Theron has linked the violent death of her father to her successful acting career - because witnessing tragedy at a young age inspired her to make the most of her life.

Theron was 15 when she saw her mother, Gerda, shoot dead her alcoholic and abusive father, Charles, in self-defense.

The actress, who won a coveted Academy Award in 2004, admits the incident will stay with her for life - but also had a positive affect by giving her the motivation to become successful.

She says, "I don't know how to say this without sounding strange. But I feel like having this tragedy at such a young age has given me a leg up from other people. Because, man, from 16, I knew the value of life and I knew how quickly it could be taken away. And from that moment on, I made a choice to either swim or to drown, you know?

"(I have) had many painful journeys and heartbreaks since my father died, many of which I draw on for my work."

http://www.starpulse.com/news/index.php/2009/03/12/charlize_theron_says_father_s_death_made_1

[browneyes106]

I feel for Charlize to have witnssed that. She talked about it on Oprah years ago. I give credit for staying on track with her life.

[Lee]

Why is she sad that her father died?

Her father was alcoholic and abusive and the mother killed him in self defense.

It sounds to me like she is making like her father was murdered.

[Hollow]

Why is she sad that her father died?

Her father was alcoholic and abusive and the mother killed him in self defense.

It sounds to me like she is making like her father was murdered.
it isn't sad that her mother defended herself and ridded the world of a scumbag, but it is sad that her father was so detrimental to his family that it came down to him having to be killed to ensure their safety. losing a parent as a kid is never easy on the emotions, no matter what kind of person they were or any other circumstances.

[browneyes106]

Why is she sad that her father died?

Her father was alcoholic and abusive and the mother killed him in self defense.

It sounds to me like she is making like her father was murdered.

Maybe she loved her father despite his faults. Or maybe she still wishes things were different for her family. I think a lot of would be sad for years after experiencing some like that.