Susan Sarandon
Full Name and Common Aliases
Susan Abigail Sarandon, born Susan Abigail Tomalin, is widely recognized by her professional name, Susan Sarandon. Over the years, she has become a household name, known for her versatile acting skills and her passionate activism.
Birth and Death Dates
Susan Sarandon was born on October 4, 1946. As of the latest updates, she is alive and continues to contribute to both the entertainment industry and various social causes.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Susan Sarandon is an American actress and activist. Her career spans several decades, during which she has established herself as a prominent figure in Hollywood. Beyond acting, she is also known for her work as a producer and her involvement in political and social activism.
Early Life and Background
Susan Sarandon was born in New York City, the eldest of nine children in a Roman Catholic family. Her father, Phillip Leslie Tomalin, was an advertising executive, television producer, and one-time nightclub singer, while her mother, Leonora Marie, was a homemaker. Sarandon's early life was marked by a strong sense of family and community, which would later influence her humanitarian efforts.
She attended The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., where she studied drama under the tutelage of renowned drama coach Father Gilbert V. Hartke. It was during her college years that Sarandon discovered her passion for acting, setting the stage for her future career in the entertainment industry.
Major Accomplishments
Susan Sarandon's career is decorated with numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in "Dead Man Walking" (1995). She has also received multiple nominations for her performances in films such as "Thelma & Louise" (1991), "Lorenzo's Oil" (1992), "The Client" (1994), and "Atlantic City" (1980). Her ability to portray complex characters with depth and authenticity has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
In addition to her Oscar win, Sarandon has been honored with a BAFTA Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and several Golden Globe nominations. Her contributions to film and television have solidified her status as one of the most respected actresses of her generation.
Notable Works or Actions
Susan Sarandon's filmography is extensive, with standout performances in films like "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" (1975), where she played the iconic role of Janet Weiss, and "Bull Durham" (1988), which showcased her comedic talents. Her role in "Thelma & Louise" alongside Geena Davis became a cultural touchstone, highlighting themes of female empowerment and friendship.
Beyond her acting career, Sarandon is known for her activism. She has been a vocal advocate for a variety of causes, including human rights, environmental issues, and social justice. Her commitment to activism is as much a part of her legacy as her film work, making her a respected figure both on and off the screen.
Impact and Legacy
Susan Sarandon's impact on the entertainment industry and society at large is profound. As an actress, she has challenged stereotypes and pushed the boundaries of traditional female roles in Hollywood. Her performances have inspired countless actors and filmmakers, and her dedication to her craft continues to influence the industry.
As an activist, Sarandon has used her platform to raise awareness about important issues, often speaking out against injustice and advocating for change. Her willingness to take a stand, even when it is unpopular, has earned her admiration and respect from many quarters.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Susan Sarandon is widely quoted and remembered for her fearless approach to both her career and her activism. Her quotes often reflect her strong beliefs and her commitment to making a difference in the world. Whether discussing her roles, her views on social issues, or her personal philosophy, Sarandon's words resonate with many who admire her courage and integrity.
Her ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and passion makes her a compelling figure, and her quotes continue to inspire those who seek to understand the intersection of art and activism. Susan Sarandon's legacy is one of talent, tenacity, and a relentless pursuit of truth and justice.
Quotes by Susan Sarandon
Susan Sarandon's insights on:
If you walk down the street and see someone in a box, you have a choice. That person is either the other and you're fearful of them, or that person is an extension of your family. And that makes you at home in that world and not fearful. So really it's very self-serving.
The thing that’s bad about breasts is that you have to choose between having a mind and having breasts. It’d be nice if you could have both.
There wasn’t space to mood-up. I think Rose Byrne was just extraordinary. Talk about a character that could be really unsympathetic at times. She just jumped in these scenes that go from anger to hysteria to crying to laughing and back to anger. I just marveled.
I’m kind of a nerd, so whenever I get a chance to talk to an artist I really admire, I tend to gravitate to process.
I can’t speak for other people, but for me, it never really worked to think something like, “What Beatle did she like in high school?” or those kinds of elaborate backstories.
When Alan Rickman, a dear friend of mine, played villains, he always made it complicated. He didn’t redeem what they did, but he made you feel that it was hard for them to be so horrible.
When I tell people I’m a comedian they say, ‘Oh, are you funny?’ I say, ‘No, it’s not that kind of comedy.’
The directors I consider really great have the ability to recognize when something’s going in an unexpected direction and see it as a bonus and be able to go with it, as opposed to locking down what they thought was going to happen.
This Catholic thing, I think what it does is it makes a place for mystery in a person. And even when the faith goes away, there’s that space where you crave something bigger than yourself. For me, that’s kind of where art came in, after that.