Laurie Metcalf is an accomplished American actress who has built a remarkable career spanning more than four decades. Known for her versatility and complex roles, she has garnered critical acclaim through her work in theater, television, and film. Born Laura Elizabeth Metcalf on June 16, 1955, in Carbondale, Illinois, she was raised in Edwardsville, Illinois, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in theater from Illinois State University in 1977.
Metcalf’s professional journey led her to numerous accolades, including two Tony Awards, four Primetime Emmy Awards, and an Academy Award nomination, proving her undeniable talent across various mediums. Her television roles in iconic shows like ‘Roseanne,’ ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ and ‘Getting On’ not only helped solidify her standing in the entertainment industry but also showcased her ability to master a diverse range of characters.
Story Stages
Early Life and Education
Illinois Roots
Laurie Metcalf was born on June 16, 1955, in Carbondale, Illinois. She grew up in the nearby town of Edwardsville, where her father, James, worked as the budget director at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. Her mother, Libby, was a librarian. As a shy child, Laurie discovered that her inhibitions vanished while performing on stage, sparking her interest in theater and acting.
Academic Pursuits
Metcalf attended Illinois State University, where she diligently pursued her passion for theater. In 1977, she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in theater, setting the stage for her successful career in the entertainment industry. During her time at university, Laurie honed her skills and developed her distinctive acting style, which would later captivate audiences worldwide on stage, in movies, and on television.
Theatre Career
Steppenwolf Theatre Company
Laurie Metcalf began her illustrious theatre career as an original ensemble member of the renowned Steppenwolf Theatre Company in the 1970s. This Chicago-based institution has since served as a frequent platform for Metcalf, allowing her to display her versatile acting skills in numerous stage productions.
Broadway Success
Metcalf made her Broadway debut in the 1985 play My Thing of Love. However, it was her outstanding performances in recent years that truly solidified her status as a Broadway star. In 2018, she won a Tony Award for her portrayal of B in Edward Albee’s Three Tall Women. This marked a significant milestone in Metcalf’s career, as she received high praise for her work in New York’s esteemed theatre circle. Another remarkable performance came when she starred in A Doll’s House, Part 2, which further accentuated her prowess on the Broadway stage.
Throughout her theatre career, Laurie Metcalf has consistently showcased her exceptional acting abilities, earning acclaim both with the Steppenwolf Theatre Company and on Broadway. With numerous accolades under her belt, including a Tony Award, Metcalf’s theatrical accomplishments reflect her dedication to the craft and her ability to captivate audiences with powerful performances.
Television Roles
Sitcom Stardom with Roseanne
Laurie Metcalf gained significant recognition for her portrayal of Jacqueline “Jackie” Harris in the hit sitcom Roseanne (1988). Her outstanding performance in the show earned her two Golden Globe nominations and three Primetime Emmy Awards. Later on, Metcalf reprised her role in the spin-off series, The Conners (2018- ).
Diverse TV Appearances
Metcalf demonstrated her versatility with guest roles in several notable TV series. For instance, she received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for her appearances in 3rd Rock from the Sun (1999). Other Emmy-nominated performances from Metcalf include Monk (2006), Desperate Housewives (2007), The Big Bang Theory (2016), Getting On (2013-2015), and Horace and Pete (2016). Metcalf’s talent has also been portrayed in The Norm Show, as well as an appearance on the iconic Saturday Night Live.
In addition to her sitcom success, the range of Metcalf’s television work spans drama, comedy, and science fiction. Her impressive body of work showcases her ability to transition effortlessly between different genres and characters, solidifying her position as a skilled and versatile actress.
Filmography
Early Film Work
Laurie Metcalf began her film career in the 1980s with a small role in the 1985 film “Desperately Seeking Susan”. She continued to take on various roles in both film and television throughout the decades, eventually gaining more recognition and praise for her acting abilities.
Critical Acclaim
Metcalf received critical acclaim for her roles in films such as “JFK” (1991) and “Scream 2” (1997). However, one of the most notable roles in her filmography is her voice work as Mrs. Davis in the Toy Story franchise. Metcalf lent her voice to the character beginning with the original “Toy Story” in 1995 and continued to reprise her role in sequels “Toy Story 2” (1999), “Toy Story 3” (2010), and “Toy Story 4” (2019).
In recent years, Metcalf has been involved in more high-profile film projects. She appeared in the 2007 film “Georgia Rule” alongside Lindsay Lohan and Jane Fonda. Her performance in the 2017 film “Lady Bird”, directed by Greta Gerwig, garnered her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
Laurie Metcalf’s filmography showcases her versatility and talent as an actress. With an Oscar nomination and her involvement in the successful Toy Story franchise under her belt, she has proven herself to be a noteworthy figure in the world of film.
Awards and Nominations
Academy and Tony Highlights
Laurie Metcalf, an American actress, has been recognized for her achievements both on stage and screen. In her career, she has garnered a variety of award nominations and wins. A notable highlight is her Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Greta Gerwig’s coming-of-age film, Lady Bird (2017).
Metcalf has also received impressive accolades in the theatre world. She has been nominated for six Tony Awards, winning Best Actress in a Play in 2017 for her role in A Doll’s House, Part 2, and Best Featured Actress in a Play for the 2018 revival of Edward Albee’s Three Tall Women.
Emmy Achievements
Laurie Metcalf’s television success is evident in her numerous Emmy Award nominations and wins. In 2022, she won a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as “Weed” in the series Hacks. Metcalf was nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2018 for playing “Jackie Harris” in Roseanne. She also received a nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2016 for her work in Getting On.
Metcalf’s impressive career spans various award categories, including the BAFTA Award, Golden Globe Awards, SAG Award, and Obie Award. Among these, she received an Obie Award for Performance in 2010 for her role in the play A Lie of the Mind.
Personal Life
Family Insights
Laurie Metcalf, born as Laura Elizabeth Metcalf on June 16, 1955, hails from Carbondale, Illinois. She is the eldest of three children of James Metcalf, a budget director at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, and Libby Metcalf, a librarian. Laurie has a younger brother named James and a younger sister named Linda.
In her own family life, Metcalf was married to Jeff Perry from 1983 to 1992, with whom she has a daughter named Zoe Perry. Notably, Zoe followed in her mother’s footsteps and pursued a career in acting. Later, Metcalf married Matt Roth, her co-star from the hit TV series “Roseanne,” in 1993. The couple had three children but eventually divorced in 2011 after eighteen years of marriage.
Among her children with Matt Roth, Mae Akins Roth, born via surrogacy, has kept a low profile, distinguishing herself from the public personas of her family members.
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Off-Screen Interests
In addition to her successful acting career, Metcalf is known to have various interests outside of acting. She is an avid theater enthusiast and has been an essential part of the Steppenwolf Theatre Company since the 1970s. Her commitment to the theater has undoubtedly contributed to her impressive range and versatility as an actress.
Legacy and Impact
Influence on Theatre
Laurie Metcalf, an American actress, has had a significant impact on the theater world throughout her career. Renowned for her exceptional performances in stage productions, Metcalf shines in a variety of roles, making her a versatile and respected presence in the industry. With her extensive background in theater, she has inspired a new generation of performers to hone their craft for the stage.
One of Metcalf’s most significant contributions to theater has been her work with the famed Steppenwolf Theatre Company. She is a founding member of the ensemble, which has become synonymous with quality productions and talented performers. Through Steppenwolf, Metcalf has participated in numerous memorable and critically acclaimed productions, exemplifying her dedication to the craft and her ability to bring thought-provoking characters to life.
Contribution to Television and Film
Laurie Metcalf’s impact goes far beyond the stage, extending into her work as an accomplished television and film actress. Arguably her most iconic role, Metcalf played Jackie Harris in the hit sitcom “Roseanne” for 10 seasons. Her portrayal of the character earned her multiple awards and nominations and solidified her reputation as a talented and engaging performer.
In film, Metcalf has showcased her acting prowess in a variety of roles. One of her standout performances came in the form of Marion McPherson, the mother in Greta Gerwig’s coming-of-age film “Lady Bird” (2017). It earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. This role alone demonstrates Metcalf’s versatility as an actress and her ability to excel in both comedic and dramatic roles.
Furthermore, Laurie Metcalf has had a lasting influence on many modern actresses and actors, including the portrayal of Darlene by Sara Gilbert in “Roseanne.” Metcalf’s fearless approach to challenging roles and her commitment to the craft has provided inspiration for upcoming generations of performers in both theater and film.
Throughout her career, Laurie Metcalf has demonstrated her immense skill as an actress and has left an impactful legacy in the worlds of theatre, television, and film. By continually taking on complex and versatile roles, Metcalf has inspired future generations to embrace the craft of acting and push the boundaries of their potential.
