Births on January 13

Penelope Ann Miller, American actress

Penelope Ann Miller, born Penelope Andrea Miller on January 13, 1964, is a highly regarded American actress known for her diverse work across stage and screen. Often credited simply as Penelope Miller early in her career, she has carved out a significant presence in both Broadway productions and major Hollywood films, showcasing a remarkable range in her performances.

Early Career Beginnings on Broadway

Miller's professional acting journey commenced on the prestigious Broadway stage, marking her debut in 1985 with the original production of Neil Simon’s critically acclaimed play, Biloxi Blues. This seminal work, part of Simon's semi-autobiographical "Eugene Trilogy," centered on a group of army recruits during World War II and provided a strong foundation for her career. Her talent was further recognized in 1989 when she received a coveted Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Play for her poignant performance as Emily Webb in the revival of Thornton Wilder's timeless American classic, Our Town. This nomination underscored her capabilities as a compelling and nuanced stage performer, earning her critical praise for her portrayal of the character's journey from youth to adulthood.

Hollywood Breakthrough and Acclaimed Film Roles

The late 1980s and early 1990s saw Penelope Ann Miller become a prominent figure in Hollywood, starring in a succession of major motion pictures that showcased her versatility across various genres. Her notable filmography from this prolific period includes:

• Adventures in Babysitting (1987): A memorable role in this beloved 80s teen comedy, often cited as a cult classic for its adventurous plot and youthful appeal.
• Biloxi Blues (1988): Reprising her role from the Broadway stage, she starred in the film adaptation of Neil Simon's play, seamlessly transitioning her performance to the big screen alongside Matthew Broderick.
• Big Top Pee-wee (1988): Appearing in this quirky follow-up to Pee-wee Herman’s cinematic adventures, adding to the film’s unique ensemble.
• The Freshman (1990): A comedic turn opposite screen legend Marlon Brando and Matthew Broderick, where she played Tina Sabatini, the daughter of a mob boss, in this acclaimed crime comedy.
• Awakenings (1990): A critically acclaimed drama based on a true story, starring Robert De Niro and Robin Williams. Miller delivered a sensitive and impactful performance in a pivotal supporting role within this powerful narrative about catatonic patients.
• Kindergarten Cop (1990): A highly successful action-comedy where she co-starred with Arnold Schwarzenegger, playing Joyce Palmieri, a teacher with a hidden past. This film became a significant commercial hit, further solidifying her presence in mainstream cinema.
• Other People's Money (1991): A sharp comedy-drama alongside Danny DeVito, where she played Kate Sullivan, a shrewd lawyer.
• Year of the Comet (1992): A romantic adventure film, allowing her to explore a lighter, more adventurous side.
• Carlito's Way (1993): One of her most iconic and critically praised roles, she starred as Gail, a former ballet dancer and the passionate girlfriend of Al Pacino’s titular character, Carlito Brigante, in this gritty and acclaimed crime drama directed by Brian De Palma. Her powerful and emotionally charged performance earned her a prestigious Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, cementing her status as a formidable dramatic actress.

Continuing Contributions to Film and Television

Following her busy period in the early 90s, Miller continued to engage with both her stage roots and diverse cinematic projects, maintaining a consistent presence in the entertainment industry. In 1995, she returned to Broadway in the original stage production of On the Waterfront, a new adaptation of the classic story, showcasing her enduring commitment to live theater. Her later film roles demonstrate her breadth as an actress:

• The Relic (1997): A leading role in this horror-thriller, where she played Dr. Margo Green, showcasing her ability to anchor a genre film.
• Chaplin (1992): A supporting role in the biographical drama about legendary comedian Charlie Chaplin, starring Robert Downey Jr. in the titular role, contributing to the film's ensemble cast.
• Along Came a Spider (2001): A suspense thriller featuring Morgan Freeman as detective Alex Cross, in which Miller played a supporting role, adding to the tension of the narrative.
• The Artist (2011): A notable appearance as Doris, the disgruntled wife of silent film star George Valentin (Jean Dujardin), in the highly acclaimed, multi-Academy Award-winning silent film homage that captivated critics and audiences worldwide. Her nuanced portrayal in this unique film contributed to its overall success and global recognition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Penelope Ann Miller

When was Penelope Ann Miller born?

Penelope Ann Miller was born on January 13, 1964.

For what role did Penelope Ann Miller receive a Tony Award nomination?

She received a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Play for her performance as Emily Webb in the 1989 Broadway revival of Thornton Wilder's Our Town.

What film earned Penelope Ann Miller a Golden Globe nomination?

Penelope Ann Miller earned a Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her compelling portrayal of Gail in the 1993 crime drama Carlito's Way, where she starred alongside Al Pacino.

What are some of Penelope Ann Miller's most famous films from the late 1980s and early 1990s?

Her most famous films from this period include Adventures in Babysitting (1987), Biloxi Blues (1988), The Freshman (1990), Awakenings (1990), Kindergarten Cop (1990), and Carlito's Way (1993), showcasing her versatility in various genres.

Did Penelope Ann Miller appear in the Academy Award-winning film The Artist?

Yes, Penelope Ann Miller had a notable supporting role as Doris in the 2011 critically acclaimed and multi-Academy Award-winning film The Artist, contributing to its global triumph.