Joan Cusack, 63, has offered insights into her decision to step away from Hollywood and establish a life in the Midwest, which includes running a gift store. The Oscar-nominated actress, recognized for her performances in films like "Working Girl" (1988) and "In & Out" (1997), made these remarks during a promotional event for "Toy Story 5," marking a notable return to public appearances after an 11-year hiatus.
Cusack stated that her primary focus has been raising her children in Chicago. "It’s been kind of crazy to be part of it, a red carpet thing. It’s just not what I do. I don’t even dress up that much," she told People. She resides in the Midwest city with her husband, Richard Burke, whom she married in 1996, and their two sons, Dylan John and Miles.
The actress described past attempts to live in Los Angeles, noting that the atmosphere and weather did not suit her. "I think a couple times I tried to go out to L.A., and I’d be in a coffee shop and the waitress would be like, 'Oh my God, I just got a part doing blah-blah-blah.' Everyone’s so beautiful. It’s too sunny. I don’t even like the sun, so I couldn’t do it," she recalled.
Her return to the red carpet for "Toy Story 5" is a departure from her typically reclusive lifestyle. "In my life, I haven’t really done that many of those things," Cusack commented on such events. She reprised her voice role as the toy cowgirl Jessie in the Pixar and Disney sequel.
Beyond her film work, Cusack has cultivated a quieter life in Chicago, where she owns and operates a gift shop named Judy Maxwell Home. The store, inspired by Barbra Streisand's character in "What's Up, Doc?" (1972), is described as offering curated home items, local crafts, and small gifts.
"It's so fun," Cusack shared about her shop. "At first I didn't have price tags on anything, and I was sad when someone bought something because what was I going to do? I have to find another thing! So it's been such a funny journey. I've never made any money, but it's been a great hobby."
Cusack, who also starred in "Shameless" and lent her voice to "Klaus," has had other recent roles including "Homecoming" and voicing Jessie in "Disney Speedstorm" in 2023. Her career also includes roles in "Sixteen Candles" alongside her brother John Cusack, "Addams Family Values," and "School of Rock."