Laura Dern Forced to Quit UCLA for Role in 'Blue Velvet'

The actress recalls the ultimatum that led her to leave college and pursue her breakout role in David Lynch's 1986 film.

Dern was told she would no longer be welcome at UCLA if she accepted the role.
The head of the film department deemed it 'insane' to give up college for the film.
'Blue Velvet' became a cult classic and a pivotal moment in Dern's career.
Ironically, the film is now part of UCLA's core curriculum for film studies.
Dern shared her story on Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson’s podcast.