Close, but Not Quite

I read with some amusement May 12 that ABC and Hallmark Entertainment have hired Glenn Close to play Nellie Forbush in an upcoming TV production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “South Pacific.” According to my reference books, Close was born on March 19, 1947, which means she just recently celebrated her 51st birthday. She’ll probably be 52 when the show finally goes into production. That makes her about 30 years too old to play a wide-eyed Navy ensign.

With all the young actresses and singers who are available and clearly right for the role, why would ABC and Hallmark hire Close? Better question: Why would she accept? If there’s any justice, Close’s voice will be relooped by Andie MacDowell.

JOE BALTAKE

Film critic, The Sacramento Bee