Births on February 14

Meg Tilly, American actress and author

Meg Tilly, born Margaret Elizabeth Chan on February 14, 1960, in Los Angeles, California, is a highly acclaimed American-Canadian actress and accomplished writer. Her career is marked by significant achievements in both film and television, earning her prestigious awards and critical recognition, alongside a successful foray into literature.

A Distinguished Acting Career

Meg Tilly's acting prowess has been recognized across various mediums, cementing her status as a versatile performer. Her ability to embody complex characters has garnered her some of the industry's most esteemed accolades.

Breakthrough in "Agnes of God"

One of Tilly's most iconic performances came in the 1985 drama film Agnes of God, directed by Norman Jewison. In this thought-provoking movie, she portrayed Sister Agnes, a young novice nun who gives birth and denies memory of the event, leading to an investigation by a psychiatrist (played by Jane Fonda) and the Mother Superior (Anne Bancroft). Her compelling and nuanced depiction of the innocent yet troubled nun earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress – Motion Picture. Furthermore, this role led to a highly coveted nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, solidifying her place among Hollywood's elite performers.

Notable Filmography

Beyond her award-winning role, Meg Tilly has starred in a diverse array of films that showcase her talent and range. Her earlier work includes the psychological horror sequel Psycho II (1983), where she played Mary Loomis, a troubled young woman who becomes entangled with Norman Bates. The same year, she appeared in the critically acclaimed ensemble dramedy The Big Chill, directed by Lawrence Kasdan, portraying Chloe, the much younger girlfriend of a deceased friend. In 1988, Tilly co-starred with Rob Lowe in the romantic thriller Masquerade, adding another genre to her repertoire. Her late 1980s film credits also feature the elegant period drama Valmont (1989), directed by the legendary Miloš Forman, an alternative adaptation of Pierre Choderlos de Laclos's novel "Les Liaisons dangereuses," where she played Madame de Tourvel.

Acclaimed Television Work

Tilly's talents have also shone brightly on the small screen. From 2012 to 2013, she captivated audiences as Lorna Corbett in the Canadian historical drama series Bomb Girls. Set during World War II, the series followed the lives of women working in a Canadian munitions factory. Her powerful portrayal of Lorna, a supervisor managing the intense pressures of the wartime production line and the personal lives of her staff, earned her the prestigious 2013 Canadian Screen Award for Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series, further cementing her reputation as a leading dramatic actress.

Prolific Author and Storyteller

In addition to her celebrated acting career, Meg Tilly has established herself as a successful and prolific writer. She has authored multiple novels, primarily aimed at young adult audiences, which delve into themes of family, identity, and resilience. Her novel Porcupine, published in 2007, received significant literary recognition as a finalist for the Sheila A. Egoff Children's Literature Prize, part of the esteemed BC Book Prizes that celebrate excellence in British Columbia's literary landscape. Tilly's other notable literary works include her debut novel Gemma (1994), followed by titles such as Singing Songs and A Taste of Heaven, showcasing her consistent dedication to storytelling through the written word.

Frequently Asked Questions about Meg Tilly

Is Meg Tilly American or Canadian?

Meg Tilly holds dual American and Canadian citizenship. She was born in Los Angeles, California, U.S., but has significant ties and professional accomplishments in Canada, including winning a Canadian Screen Award.

For which film did Meg Tilly receive an Academy Award nomination?

Meg Tilly was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Sister Agnes in the 1985 film Agnes of God. She also won a Golden Globe Award for the same performance.

What kind of books has Meg Tilly written?

Meg Tilly is an author of multiple novels, primarily young adult fiction. Her books often explore themes of relationships, personal growth, and emotional depth, with Porcupine being a notable example that was a finalist for the Sheila A. Egoff Children's Literature Prize.

Is Meg Tilly related to Jennifer Tilly?

Yes, Meg Tilly is the younger sister of Academy Award-nominated actress Jennifer Tilly. Both sisters have achieved significant success in Hollywood.