Darlene Cates was born in Borger, Texas and grew up in Dumas. Her breakout role in Hollywood was also her first when she was offered the role of a housebound mother in "What's Eating Gilbert Grape." The drama, which starred a young Johnny Depp, notably earned DiCaprio his first Oscar nomination.

The actress was allegedly discovered by "Gilbert Grape" author and screenwriter Peter Hedges after she appeared on an episode of Sally Jessy Raphael's talk show titled "Too Heavy to Leave Their House." On the program, Cates discussed how being obese impacted her life.

After "Gilbert Grape" Cates' acting career was limited to guest turns in Touched by an Angel, Picket Fences and the TV movie Wolf Girl.