Dinah Manoff, American actress
Dinah Beth Manoff, born on January 25, 1956, is a distinguished American artist renowned for her multifaceted contributions to stage, film, and television as both an actress and a television director. Throughout her impressive career, Manoff has captivated audiences with her versatility, transitioning seamlessly between dramatic and comedic roles across various highly regarded productions.
Key Roles and Career Milestones
Manoff's extensive career is marked by several memorable performances that have cemented her place in entertainment history. Her ability to inhabit diverse characters has made her a familiar face to generations of viewers.
- Elaine Lefkowitz in Soap: She gained early recognition for her role as Elaine Lefkowitz in the satirical sitcom Soap, a groundbreaking series known for its unique blend of soap opera parody and social commentary. Manoff's portrayal contributed to the show's cult status.
- Marty Maraschino in Grease: One of her most iconic performances came as Marty Maraschino in the beloved 1978 film adaptation of the musical Grease. As one of the sassy Pink Ladies, Marty's flamboyant personality and memorable lines, particularly her pen-pal relationship with a series of foreign boyfriends, made her a standout character in the blockbuster movie. This role introduced her to a global audience.
- Libby Tucker in I Ought to Be in Pictures: Manoff earned significant critical acclaim for her portrayal of Libby Tucker. She originated the role in the 1980 stage production of Neil Simon's poignant play I Ought to Be in Pictures. Her exceptional performance on Broadway led to her winning the prestigious Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play. She subsequently reprised the role in the 1982 film adaptation, further showcasing her profound understanding of the character's complexities.
- Carol Weston in Empty Nest: From 1989 to 1995, Manoff became a household name as Carol Weston in the popular NBC sitcom Empty Nest. As the neurotic and often hilariously high-strung daughter of Dr. Harry Weston, her character was central to the series, which was a successful spin-off of The Golden Girls. This role allowed her to demonstrate her comedic timing and ability to portray relatable anxieties.
Beyond Acting: Directing and Later Career
While primarily known for her acting, Dinah Manoff has also ventured behind the camera, showcasing her talents as a television director. She directed several episodes of her own hit series, Empty Nest, during its final seasons (1995-1998), demonstrating her directorial vision and leadership. Her directing credits also include an episode of the Brooke Shields-led sitcom Suddenly Susan in 1997.
Throughout the 1990s, Manoff was a prominent figure in television, starring in numerous made-for-TV movies and making guest appearances on various television programs. In more recent years, she has continued to take on roles in theatrical films such as The Amati Girls (2000) and Bart Got a Room (2008). She also held a co-starring role in the family drama series State of Grace, which aired from 2001 to 2002.
Personal Life and Family Background
Dinah Manoff comes from a lineage deeply rooted in the entertainment industry. She is the daughter of two highly respected figures: actress Lee Grant and screenwriter Arnold Manoff. Her mother, Lee Grant, is an Academy Award-winning actress and director, known for her powerful performances and for famously being blacklisted during the McCarthy era. Her father, Arnold Manoff, was a notable screenwriter and playwright, contributing significantly to the world of theatre and cinema. This creative upbringing undoubtedly influenced Dinah's career path.
Regarding her personal life, Dinah Manoff has been married to Arthur Mortell since 1997. The couple currently resides in Bainbridge Island, Washington, a picturesque community known for its natural beauty and vibrant arts scene. Prior to her current marriage, she was married to Jean-Marc Joubert and had previously lived in major cultural hubs such as Los Angeles and New York City, cities synonymous with the entertainment industry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dinah Manoff
- What is Dinah Manoff best known for?
- Dinah Manoff is widely recognized for her memorable roles as Marty Maraschino in the film Grease, Libby Tucker in both the stage and film versions of I Ought to Be in Pictures, and Carol Weston in the television sitcom Empty Nest.
- What prestigious award did Dinah Manoff win?
- Dinah Manoff won a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play in 1980 for her performance as Libby Tucker in the Broadway production of Neil Simon's I Ought to Be in Pictures.
- Is Dinah Manoff still acting, and has she directed anything?
- Yes, Dinah Manoff has continued to appear in films and television periodically, including roles in films like Bart Got a Room. Additionally, she has experience as a television director, having directed several episodes of Empty Nest and an episode of Suddenly Susan.
- Who are Dinah Manoff's parents?
- Dinah Manoff's parents are the acclaimed Academy Award-winning actress and director Lee Grant, and the notable screenwriter and playwright Arnold Manoff.
- Where does Dinah Manoff currently reside?
- Dinah Manoff currently resides in Bainbridge Island, Washington, with her husband, Arthur Mortell.