ELIZABETH McGOVERN BIOGRAPHY:
Elizabeth McGovern is an American actress known for her work in film, television, and theater. She has had a diverse and accomplished career spanning several decades.
Early Life and Work
Elizabeth McGovern was born on July 18, 1961, in Evanston, Illinois, to Katharine Wolcott and William Montgomery McGovern, Jr. Her mother worked as a high school teacher, while her father was a university professor. McGovern’s heritage includes Irish, English, and Scottish roots. She has a younger sister, Cammie McGovern, who is a novelist.
At the age of 10, McGovern and her family relocated to Los Angeles, California, when her father accepted a teaching position at UCLA School of Law. She attended North Hollywood High School, where she discovered her passion for acting by participating in school plays. After completing high school, McGovern pursued her theatrical education at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco. Later, she further honed her skills as a member of Group 12 at the renowned Juilliard School in New York City, where she studied for a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama from 1979 to 1981.
Acting Breakthrough
McGovern’s early breakthrough came in 1980 when she starred in the critically acclaimed film “Ordinary People.” Her performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. This recognition propelled her career forward and opened doors to various acting opportunities.
Throughout her career, McGovern has appeared in a range of films, including “Ragtime” (1981), “Once Upon a Time in America” (1984), and “The Handmaid’s Tale” (1990). She received a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Ragtime.”
In addition to her work in film, McGovern has made notable contributions to the world of theater. She has appeared on stage in both the United States and the United Kingdom, earning praise for her performances in productions such as “Hamlet,” “The Misanthrope,” and “Time and the Conways.”
On the television front, McGovern is perhaps best known for her role as Cora Crawley, Countess of Grantham, in the critically acclaimed series “Downton Abbey.” The show garnered immense popularity and earned her multiple award nominations, including a Primetime Emmy nomination.
Personal Life of Elizabeth McGovern
Regarding her personal life, McGovern is married to British film director and producer Simon Curtis. They have two daughters together and live in London.