Births on January 12

Margaret Nagle, American screenwriter and producer

Margaret Nagle, born on January 12, 1969, stands as a distinguished figure in the entertainment industry, celebrated for her multi-faceted career as an acclaimed screenwriter, a proficient television producer, and a dedicated human rights activist. Her significant contributions to film and television have not only garnered critical acclaim, including two Emmy Award nominations and three prestigious Writers Guild of America (WGA) Awards, but also reflect a deep commitment to social advocacy and authentic storytelling.

Nagle's impressive academic journey began uniquely at the University of California, Berkeley, where she pursued undergraduate studies simultaneously with her high school education, demonstrating exceptional intellectual prowess from an early age. She later completed her higher education at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, earning her bachelor's degree. This robust educational foundation provided a strong springboard for her subsequent success in the demanding fields of screenwriting and production.

A Groundbreaking Debut: Warm Springs

Margaret Nagle's professional screenwriting career commenced with an extraordinary impact through her script for HBO's "Warm Springs." This critically acclaimed 2005 television movie, which chronicles President Franklin D. Roosevelt's personal battle with polio and his pioneering efforts to establish a rehabilitation center in Warm Springs, Georgia, achieved a remarkable and then-record-breaking 16 Emmy Award nominations. It ultimately secured five Emmy Awards, including the highly coveted Emmy Award for Best Television Movie, underscoring its profound artistic and historical significance. "Warm Springs" further solidified Nagle's talent by earning her the 2006 Writers Guild of America Award for Long Form Original Screenplay, an award recognizing excellence in scripts written directly for television without prior published source material.

Acclaimed Works in Film and Television

Following her impactful debut, Nagle continued to shape compelling narratives across various platforms. Her screenplay for the 2014 feature film "The Good Lie" received significant recognition. This powerful drama, based on the true stories of Sudanese refugees known as the "Lost Boys of Sudan," highlights their journey to resettlement in the United States and their struggles with cultural assimilation and past trauma. For her exceptional work on "The Good Lie," Nagle was honored with The Paul Selvin Award from the Writers Guild of America, an esteemed accolade presented to a WGA member whose script best embodies the spirit of constitutional rights and civil liberties. Beyond her film achievements, Nagle's versatility extended to episodic television, where she contributed her writing talent to the critically acclaimed HBO historical crime drama "Boardwalk Empire." Her work on this series earned her a 2011 Writers Guild of America Award, acknowledging her integral role in its celebrated storytelling.

Championing Inclusion and Human Rights

Margaret Nagle's influence extends far beyond entertainment, profoundly impacting social representation and humanitarian efforts. In 2014, she was honored with the prestigious Media Access Award from the Writers Guild of America. This award specifically recognized her dedicated efforts in actively "doubling the number" of characters with disabilities appearing on network television, a groundbreaking achievement in promoting authentic and diverse representation within mainstream media. Her advocacy has significantly contributed to challenging stereotypes and fostering a more inclusive portrayal of people with disabilities on screen, emphasizing their multifaceted lives and contributions. Concurrently with her creative endeavors, Nagle is a passionate human rights activist. She has tirelessly dedicated her time to raising critical funds and awareness for Humanitarian Aid for South Sudan. Utilizing screenings of "The Good Lie," given the film's poignant connection to the plight of Sudanese refugees, she has actively supported vital organizations such as Concern Worldwide, UNICEF, and RefugePoint. Her efforts help provide essential resources and assistance to communities affected by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in South Sudan, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to global well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions about Margaret Nagle

What are Margaret Nagle's primary professional roles?

Margaret Nagle is primarily known as a highly successful screenwriter and television producer. She also actively engages as a dedicated human rights activist, integrating her advocacy work with her creative pursuits.

What notable awards has Margaret Nagle received?

Margaret Nagle has been nominated for two Emmy Awards and has won three Writers Guild of America Awards for her outstanding screenwriting. These include awards for "Warm Springs," "Boardwalk Empire," and "The Good Lie" (The Paul Selvin Award), as well as the Media Access Award for her advocacy in disability representation.

What is the significance of the Media Access Award Margaret Nagle received?

The 2014 Media Access Award from the Writers Guild of America recognized Margaret Nagle for her instrumental role in significantly increasing the representation of characters with disabilities on network television, thereby promoting greater inclusivity and breaking down barriers in media portrayal.

How has Margaret Nagle contributed to humanitarian efforts?

Margaret Nagle is a staunch advocate for humanitarian aid, particularly for South Sudan. She has actively raised money and awareness through screenings of her film "The Good Lie," collaborating with organizations like Concern Worldwide, UNICEF, and RefugePoint to support those affected by the crisis in the region.