Glenn Close

Glenn Close - Guardians of the Galaxy premiere - July 2014 (cropped)

Glenn Close is an acclaimed American actress, producer, and philanthropist, renowned for her versatility and depth in both stage and screen performances. Born on March 19, 1947, in Greenwich, Connecticut, Close has carved a distinguished career that spans over four decades, earning her numerous accolades, including multiple Academy Awards nominations, Tony Awards, and Emmy Awards.

Early Life

Glenn Close was born to Bettine Moore Close and William Taliaferro Close, a prominent doctor. She grew up in a conservative, affluent family environment. Her early years were marked by her involvement with the Moral Re-Armament (MRA), a movement her family was deeply engaged with. This period significantly influenced her later life and career choices. Close attended the College of William & Mary, where she studied theater and anthropology, marking the beginning of her lifelong passion for acting.

Career

Stage

Close's professional acting career began on the stage. She made her theater debut in 1974 in New York City's Broadway with "Love for Love," and her breakthrough came with her performance in "The Real Thing" in 1984, for which she won her first Tony Award. Her stage career is distinguished by her versatility, performing in both musicals and plays, and earning critical acclaim for roles in productions like "Sunset Boulevard" and "Death and the Maiden."

Film

Glenn Close's film career took off in the early 1980s with her role in "The World According to Garp" (1982), which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. This success was followed by memorable performances in "Fatal Attraction" (1987) and "Dangerous Liaisons" (1988), both of which solidified her status as a versatile actress capable of portraying complex characters. Over the years, Close has been nominated for several Oscars, showcasing her talent in a range of genres from drama to comedy.

Television

In addition to her work in film and theater, Close has also made significant contributions to television. She is perhaps best known for her role as Patty Hewes in the legal thriller series "Damages" (2007-2012), for which she won two Emmy Awards. Her other notable television work includes appearances in "The Shield" and the film "Serving in Silence: The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story," further demonstrating her wide-ranging acting skills.

Philanthropy and Personal Life

Beyond her acting career, Glenn Close is actively involved in philanthropy, focusing on mental health advocacy. She co-founded Bring Change to Mind in 2010, a campaign aimed at eradicating the stigma and discrimination surrounding mental illness, inspired by her own family's struggles with mental health issues.

Legacy

Glenn Close's contributions to the arts have made her one of the most respected and influential figures in the entertainment industry. Her ability to immerse herself in diverse roles, coupled with her dedication to social causes, has left an indelible mark on both her peers and the public.