Ann Magnuson, American actress and performance artist

Ann Magnuson, born on January 4, 1956, stands as a profoundly versatile American artist, celebrated across multiple disciplines including acting, performance art, and her influential work as a nightclub performer. Her unique ability to embody a wide array of personalities led The New York Times to famously describe her in 1990 as "an endearing theatrical chameleon who has as many characters at her fingertips as Lily Tomlin does." This compelling comparison to the legendary Lily Tomlin perfectly encapsulates Magnuson's remarkable range and her captivating presence, whether on stage, screen, or in the avant-garde performance spaces where she first made her mark.

Early Career: Performance Art and Nightlife Icon

Magnuson's artistic journey began in the vibrant, unconventional downtown New York City scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s. She became a pivotal figure at Club 57, a legendary East Village nightclub and art space known for fostering experimental performance, music, and multimedia art. It was here that she honed her skills as a performance artist and curator, developing the eclectic, character-driven performances that would define her early career. Her work often blended satire, social commentary, and a unique brand of subversive humor, establishing her as a cult icon within the underground art world and shaping her distinctive, ever-evolving public persona.

Music Ventures: Co-founding Bongwater

Beyond her captivating solo performance work, Ann Magnuson also made significant contributions to the music world. She co-founded the influential 1980s alternative rock band Bongwater alongside musician and producer Mark Kramer. Active from 1985 to 1991, Bongwater quickly became a significant voice in the independent music scene, recognized for their unique blend of experimental rock, spoken word passages, and Magnuson's distinctive vocal delivery. Her often surreal and poetic lyrics were a hallmark of the band's sound, contributing to critically acclaimed albums such as 'Breaking & Entering' (1987) and 'The Power of Pussy' (1990). This venture solidified Magnuson's reputation as a truly multidisciplinary artist not confined to traditional categories.

Television Success: Starring in "Anything but Love"

Magnuson successfully transitioned into mainstream television, notably starring as Catherine Hughes in the popular ABC sitcom Anything but Love, which aired from 1989 to 1992. In this romantic comedy series, she played the sharp, independent best friend and editor to Jamie Lee Curtis's character, Hannah Miller. Magnuson's character often offered cynical yet insightful commentary on the romantic entanglements between Hannah and Richard Lewis's Marty Gold. Her role in Anything but Love showcased her sharp comedic timing and broader appeal, bringing her unique charm and versatility to a wider national audience.

Diverse Film Appearances

Ann Magnuson's diverse acting talents have graced numerous films across various genres, reflecting her versatility as an actress. Her early film appearances include a memorable role in Tony Scott's atmospheric vampire thriller The Hunger (1983), starring Catherine Deneuve and David Bowie, which quickly became a cult classic. She then appeared in the quirky sci-fi romantic comedy Making Mr. Right (1987), playing a flamboyant public relations specialist opposite John Malkovich. Later, she demonstrated her dramatic range in the action-thriller Clear and Present Danger (1994), an adaptation of Tom Clancy's novel starring Harrison Ford, where she played a high-level government analyst. Magnuson also featured in David Fincher's intense thriller Panic Room (2002), where she played Lydia, one of the real estate agents, showcasing her ability to add significant depth even in supporting roles. More recently, she appeared in One More Time (2015), a comedy-drama featuring Christopher Walken and Amber Heard, further illustrating her enduring presence in both independent and mainstream cinema.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ann Magnuson

Who is Ann Magnuson?

Ann Magnuson is a highly versatile American artist known for her work as an actress, performance artist, and nightclub performer. She has a distinctive style and is celebrated for her ability to portray a wide range of characters.

What is Ann Magnuson primarily known for?

Magnuson is known for her multifaceted career that spans the avant-garde performance art scene of downtown New York (particularly Club 57), her role as a founding member of the 1980s band Bongwater, and her acting career in television and film, including the sitcom Anything but Love.

What band was Ann Magnuson a part of?

Ann Magnuson was a founding member and lead vocalist of the 1980s alternative rock band Bongwater, which was active from 1985 to 1991 and known for its experimental sound and Magnuson's unique lyrical style.

What TV show did Ann Magnuson star in?

She starred as Catherine Hughes in the popular ABC sitcom Anything but Love, which aired from 1989 to 1992, opposite Jamie Lee Curtis and Richard Lewis.

What are some notable films Ann Magnuson has appeared in?

Her filmography includes diverse roles in films such as The Hunger (1983), Making Mr. Right (1987), Clear and Present Danger (1994), Panic Room (2002), and One More Time (2015).

What was Ann Magnuson's role at Club 57?

Ann Magnuson was a pivotal figure at Club 57 in the late 1970s and early 1980s, where she honed her skills as a performance artist, curated events, and developed the eclectic, character-driven performances that defined the club's avant-garde scene.