Early Life and Education
Mary McDonnell was born on April 28, 1952, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Her mother, Eileen McDonnell, was a nurse while her father, John McDonnell, was a computer consultant. Mary was the youngest of six children, and her family was of Irish heritage.
During her teenage years, Mary had a passion for the arts, particularly dance and theater. She attended the State University of New York at Fredonia and graduated with a degree in Fine Arts. After completing her degree, she moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting.
While in New York, Mary honed her craft by attending several acting classes and workshops. She also worked as a waitress to make ends meet. Her hard work paid off, and she landed her first acting role in the off-Broadway play "Still Life" in 1978.
After her success in the play, Mary continued to work in off-Broadway productions and eventually made her film debut in "Garbo Talks" in 1984.
Acting Career
Mary McDonnell started her acting career in 1979 with a minor role in the film "The Day After." She then appeared in several TV shows and movies, including "Matewan," "Dances with Wolves," and "Grand Canyon" in the 1980s and 1990s. McDonnell received critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination in 1990 for her supporting role in "Dances with Wolves."
In 2003, McDonnell landed the lead role in the sci-fi TV series "Battlestar Galactica," which ran for four seasons until 2009. Her performance as President Laura Roslin earned her praise and a Saturn Award for Best Actress on Television. McDonnell later reprised her role in the spin-off series "Caprica."
McDonnell has also had recurring roles in popular TV shows like "The Closer," "Major Crimes," and "Fargo." She has also made appearances in films like "Margin Call" and "Crazy Like a Fox."
Overall, Mary McDonnell has had a successful acting career spanning over four decades in various mediums. Her talent and versatility have allowed her to play a wide range of roles, from supporting characters to lead roles in both films and television shows.
Awards and Achievements
- Mary McDonnell was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the 1990 film "Dances with Wolves."
- She has also been nominated for two Golden Globe Awards for her performances in "Dances with Wolves" and the TV series "Battlestar Galactica."
- In 2002, McDonnell won a Saturn Award for Best Actress on Television for her role in "Battlestar Galactica."
- She has also received several Screen Actors Guild Award nominations for her work in "ER," "The Closer," and "Major Crimes."
- In 2012, McDonnell was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to the entertainment industry.
Personal Life and Family
Mary McDonnell was born on April 28, 1952, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, to parents William and Eileen. She grew up in a large Irish Catholic family, with four siblings.
McDonnell has been married to Randle Mell since 1984 and they have two children together, Olivia and Michael. The couple met while working on a theatre production and have been together ever since.
McDonnell is known for being extremely private about her personal life and rarely shares details or photos of her family on social media. However, she has been open about the challenges of balancing her career and family life, often taking breaks from acting to spend time with her children.
Despite her fame and success, McDonnell credits her family as being the most important part of her life and the reason for her continued success.
Net Worth and Philanthropy
Mary McDonnell has an estimated net worth of $10 million. Her wealth comes from her successful career as an actress, appearing in a wide range of movies and TV shows. However, she is not just focused on amassing her fortunes. McDonnell is also known for her philanthropic work, giving back to her community in various ways.
One cause that McDonnell supports is the fight against childhood cancer. She has participated in events that raise funds for cancer research and awareness, including the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. McDonnell has also been involved with various charities that aim to help those who are less fortunate, including organizations that provide shelter, clothing, and food to the homeless.
In addition to her charitable work, McDonnell is also an advocate for the arts. She has been part of organizations that promote arts education and help aspiring artists achieve their goals.
- Childhood Cancer - McDonnell supports the fight against childhood cancer and participates in events that raise funds for cancer research and awareness.
- Helping the Less Fortunate - McDonnell is involved with various charities that aim to help those who are less fortunate, including organizations that provide shelter, clothing, and food to the homeless.
- Arts Education - McDonnell is an advocate for the arts and supports organizations that promote arts education and help aspiring artists achieve their goals.
Overall, McDonnell is not only a successful actress but also a philanthropist who is committed to making a difference in the world. Her net worth is a reflection of her hard work and dedication, but her contributions to various causes are a testament to her generosity and kindness.
FAQ
What is Mary McDonnell's age?
Mary McDonnell was born on April 28, 1952, which makes her 69 years old as of 2021.
What are Mary McDonnell's notable career achievements?
Mary McDonnell has received two Academy Award nominations, one for Best Supporting Actress in "Dances with Wolves" (1990) and another for Best Actress in "Passion Fish" (1992). She has also won two Obie Awards for her stage performances and a Golden Globe Award for her role in the TV series "Battlestar Galactica" (2004-2009).
What is Mary McDonnell's net worth?
The exact net worth of Mary McDonnell is not publicly known, but it is estimated to be around $10 million, according to various sources.
How tall is Mary McDonnell?
Mary McDonnell is 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) tall.
What is Mary McDonnell's figure?
Mary McDonnell's figure is not publicly disclosed, as it is considered inappropriate to objectify women in such a way. Her talent and achievements as an actress are what define her, not her physical appearance.
