Laurie Metcalf

Laurie Metcalf

ABOUT

Laura Elizabeth Metcalf, known professionally as Laurie Metcalf, is a distinguished American actress renowned for her versatility and wide-ranging performances across film, television, and theater. Born on June 16, 1955, in Carbondale, Illinois, and raised in Edwardsville, Metcalf has carved out a significant niche in the entertainment industry, amassing numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy and Tony Awards. Her profound portrayals and distinctive voice have made her a memorable presence in the acting world.

BEFORE FAME

Laurie Metcalf’s journey into acting began during her college years at Illinois State University, where she studied theater alongside future stars like John Malkovich and Terry Kinney. She became a charter member of the renowned Steppenwolf Theatre Company, co-founded by Malkovich and Kinney, which proved to be a crucial step in her career. The intimate and challenging environment of Steppenwolf allowed Metcalf to hone her craft and establish herself as a consummate performer.

TRIVIA

In addition to her well-known roles, Laurie Metcalf has an impressive list of voice works, including the beloved character of Andy’s mom in the "Toy Story" series. Her role as Jackie Harris in the sitcom "Roseanne" earned her three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Moreover, she reprised this role in the continuation series, "The Conners." Metcalf's stage work is equally impressive, earning her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her performance in "A Doll's House, Part 2."

FAMILY LIFE

Laurie Metcalf has been married twice. Her first marriage to Jeff Perry, a co-founding member of the Steppenwolf Theatre Company, ended in divorce. The couple shares a daughter, Zoe Perry, who has followed in her mother’s footsteps, becoming a successful actress herself. Metcalf later married Matt Roth, her co-star in "Roseanne." They have three children together: a son, Will, and a daughter, Mae, and they also adopted another son, Donovan. Metcalf and Roth’s marriage ended in 2014.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Laurie Metcalf has worked with a slew of prominent collaborators throughout her career. She is frequently associated with the actor and filmmaker John Malkovich, as both were fundamental members of the Steppenwolf Theatre Company. On television, she shared the screen with Roseanne Barr and John Goodman on "Roseanne" and its spin-off "The Conners." Her theatrical collaborations include a memorable turn opposite Glenda Jackson in the Broadway production of Edward Albee’s "Three Tall Women." Metcalf’s contribution to the arts remains influential, continuously inspiring audiences and aspiring actors alike.