Cydney Bernard may not be a household name in the entertainment world, but her behind-the-scenes contributions to Hollywood and her long-term relationship with actress Jodie Foster have made her a figure of interest. As a successful film producer and production manager, Cydney has worked on numerous well-known movies and television series. Her personal life has also attracted attention, particularly her 15-year relationship with the two-time Academy Award-winning actress. In this article, we take an in-depth look at Cydney Bernard’s life, career, family, and her connection with Jodie Foster.
Early Life and Family Background
Cydney Ellen Bernard was born on March 30, 1953, in Los Angeles, California. Coming from a family of entertainers, her father, Thomas Joseph Bernard, was a well-known actor, most famous for his role in The Ruggles, a popular TV show from the 1950s. Growing up in Los Angeles, Bernard was surrounded by the entertainment industry, which likely influenced her decision to pursue a career in film.
Cydney was raised alongside her two brothers, Dustin and Thomas Bernard. Her older brother Dustin followed a similar path and found success in the film industry as a production manager, with notable credits including The Fugitive and Pacific Rim. The Bernard family’s connection to Hollywood runs deep, and Cydney’s early exposure to the entertainment world played a role in shaping her career.
Career in Film Production
Cydney Bernard embarked on her professional journey in the film industry in 1979. Her first role was as an assistant production coordinator on Yesterday’s Hero, where she worked closely with director Neil Leifer. This role marked the beginning of a successful career in film and television production that would span several decades.
As her career progressed, Cydney took on more significant responsibilities, eventually becoming a production manager and producer. Some of her most notable work includes:
- The Client (1994) – A legal thriller based on John Grisham’s novel, where Cydney served as a production manager.
- The L Word (2005) – A groundbreaking TV show centered around the lives of LGBTQ+ women, where Cydney held a key role behind the scenes.
- A Girl Thing (2001) – A made-for-TV drama featuring a star-studded cast, which she produced.
- Spinning Boris (2003) – A political comedy film where Cydney worked as the production manager.
Her career has been characterized by a steady stream of successful projects in both film and television. Though she has remained mostly behind the scenes, her work has contributed to some iconic productions that have resonated with audiences.
Relationship with Jodie Foster
While Cydney Bernard’s career is impressive in its own right, her relationship with Jodie Foster is what brought her significant public attention. The two met in the early 1990s on the set of Sommersby, a romantic drama starring Foster and Richard Gere. Their connection blossomed quickly, and they soon became romantically involved.
For many years, Cydney and Jodie maintained a low-profile relationship, preferring to keep their personal lives out of the spotlight. They lived together in West Hollywood and raised two children, but neither spoke publicly about their relationship until 2007. In 2008, Jodie Foster made a heartfelt speech at the Women in Entertainment Power 100 event, where she publicly acknowledged Cydney as her partner for the first time. She referred to Cydney as her “heroic partner” and praised her for the role she played in their family.
Despite this public declaration of their love, their relationship ended later that year after being together for approximately 15 years. Though the romantic chapter of their relationship closed, the two remain close friends, and they continue to co-parent their children.
Family Life and Children
During their time together, Cydney Bernard and Jodie Foster welcomed two children into their family. Their first son, Charles Bernard Foster, was born on July 20, 1998, followed by their second son, Kit Bernard Foster, on September 29, 2001. Both children were conceived through anonymous sperm donors, and the identity of the biological father has remained a mystery. There have been speculations that Randy Stone, a close friend of the couple and an openly gay actor and producer, could be the father. However, this remains unconfirmed.
Cydney and Jodie have worked hard to provide their children with a stable and loving environment despite their separation. The couple has been seen together at various public events over the years, signaling that they have maintained a strong bond as co-parents. Jodie Foster has mentioned in interviews that she plans to reveal the identity of the children’s biological father when they turn 21.
Where Is Cydney Bernard Now?
After her separation from Jodie Foster, Cydney Bernard has largely retreated from the public eye. While she continues to work in the film industry, she has kept her personal life private. It is believed that she still resides in Los Angeles, where she remains active in the film and television production scene.
Despite the end of her relationship with Foster, Cydney remains an important figure in the lives of their two sons. Her dedication to her family and career is a testament to her strength and resilience, qualities that Jodie Foster once described as “heroic.
Net Worth and Achievements
Cydney Bernard’s career in film production has spanned over three decades, and she has earned considerable recognition for her behind-the-scenes work. Her estimated net worth is around $500,000, a figure accumulated from her work as a producer and production manager on a variety of films and TV series. While this may not compare to the vast fortunes of some of Hollywood’s top-tier celebrities, it reflects a steady and accomplished career in a challenging and competitive industry.
Cydney’s achievements are not only limited to her professional work. Her role as a mother and co-parent to two children, as well as maintaining a positive relationship with Jodie Foster post-separation, speaks volumes about her character and commitment to family.
Conclusion
Cydney Bernard may prefer to stay behind the camera, but her impact on the film industry and her significant relationship with Jodie Foster have made her a notable figure in Hollywood. From her early beginnings in production to her role as a mother, Cydney’s journey is one of hard work, dedication, and quiet strength. While she remains a private person, her contributions to both her family and career are clear, and her story continues to be one of interest to many.
Her enduring bond with Jodie Foster, despite the end of their romantic relationship, speaks to the depth of their connection and mutual respect. Today, Cydney continues to balance her work in film with her role as a mother, all while maintaining her privacy—a true testament to her character.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cydney Bernard
1. Who is Cydney Bernard?
Cydney Bernard is an American film producer and production manager known for her work on films like The Client and TV shows like The L Word. She is also famous for her long-term relationship with actress Jodie Foster.
2. How old is Cydney Bernard?
Cydney Bernard was born on March 30, 1953, making her 70 years old as of January 2024.
3. Where does Cydney Bernard live now?
Cydney Bernard is believed to reside in Los Angeles, California, where she continues to work in the film industry.
4. Does Cydney Bernard have children?
Yes, Cydney Bernard shares two sons with Jodie Foster: Charles, born in 1998, and Kit, born in 2001.
5. Are Cydney Bernard and Jodie Foster still together?
No, Cydney Bernard and Jodie Foster ended their relationship in 2008 after approximately 15 years together. They remain close friends and co-parents to their two children.