Mary Steenburgen
Biography of Mary Steenburgen
Full Name and Common Aliases
Mary Nell Steenburgen, commonly known as Mary Steenburgen, is a celebrated American actress and singer-songwriter. Throughout her career, she has been affectionately referred to simply as "Mary" by her fans and peers.
Birth and Death Dates
Mary Steenburgen was born on February 8, 1953. As of the latest available information, she is alive and continues to contribute to the arts.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Mary Steenburgen is an American national. She has made her mark as an accomplished actress and singer-songwriter, with a career spanning several decades in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Background
Mary Steenburgen was born in Newport, Arkansas, to Nellie Mae, a school board secretary, and Maurice Hoffman Steenburgen, a freight-train conductor. Her upbringing in a small town instilled in her a strong sense of community and a love for storytelling. From a young age, Mary showed a keen interest in the performing arts, participating in school plays and local theater productions. Her passion for acting led her to move to New York City in the early 1970s, where she studied at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre, honing her craft under the tutelage of renowned acting coach Sanford Meisner.
Major Accomplishments
Mary Steenburgen's breakthrough came in 1978 when she was cast in Jack Nicholson's directorial debut, "Goin' South." Her performance caught the attention of critics and audiences alike, paving the way for her role in the 1980 film "Melvin and Howard." Her portrayal of Lynda Dummar earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, solidifying her status as a talented and versatile actress. Over the years, Mary has appeared in a wide range of films and television shows, showcasing her ability to embody diverse characters with depth and authenticity.
Notable Works or Actions
Mary Steenburgen's filmography is rich with memorable performances. In addition to her Oscar-winning role in "Melvin and Howard," she is known for her work in films such as "Ragtime," "Back to the Future Part III," "Philadelphia," and "The Help." Her television credits include notable appearances in series like "Joan of Arcadia," "Justified," and "The Last Man on Earth." Beyond acting, Mary has also made a name for herself as a singer-songwriter, contributing original songs to various film soundtracks, including the 2018 film "Wild Rose."
Impact and Legacy
Mary Steenburgen's impact on the entertainment industry is profound. Her ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles has earned her a reputation as one of Hollywood's most respected actresses. Her dedication to her craft and her willingness to take on challenging roles have inspired countless aspiring actors. Additionally, her foray into music has demonstrated her versatility and creativity, further cementing her legacy as a multifaceted artist.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Mary Steenburgen is widely quoted and remembered for her insightful and often humorous reflections on life and the entertainment industry. Her quotes reveal a deep understanding of the human condition and a genuine appreciation for the art of storytelling. She is admired not only for her talent but also for her humility and grace, qualities that resonate with audiences and fellow artists alike. Mary's ability to articulate her experiences and observations with wit and wisdom makes her a beloved figure whose words continue to inspire and entertain.
In conclusion, Mary Steenburgen's enduring career and contributions to film, television, and music have left an indelible mark on the arts. Her talent, versatility, and insightful commentary ensure that she remains a cherished and influential figure in the world of entertainment.
Quotes by Mary Steenburgen
I'm not a great horse person, but I love horses, and I love all of it. The sights and sounds and smells, the whole genre of Westerns - I love them.
The time that Ted and I spend talking about our careers is almost infinitesimally small. We mostly talk about our kids and our grandkids. I think we talk about our careers if something funny happened at work. We're very childlike in many ways.
The accordion came from just having a desire to play music. Somehow, I have slowly taught myself.
When you read books, you kind of create that whole world in your mind, and you go on a journey with the author of that book. I think that's really a good thing.
Our culture loves movies and TV, which is wonderful, but there's something a little bit passive sometimes about watching, because you're looking at other people's imagination at work.
Reading is how I became an actor because I didn't grow up in a house where there was an awareness of film or theater. I also grew up in a house full of teachers, so reading was big in our world.
When I was going through sad times, I'd watch 'Cheers' at the end of the day to make me feel better.
My dad had a series of heart attacks when I was a little girl, and our world was shaped by these huge, traumatic events.
My family didn't have money to travel, so reading was how I knew about the world. It made me hungry to have more experiences than just what I could possibly experience in Arkansas.