Burstyn, Ellen (1932–)

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Burstyn, Ellen (1932–)

American stage, tv and screen actress. Name variations: (stage names) Edna Rae, Keri Flynn, Erica Dean, Ellen McRae. Born Edna Rae Gilhooley, Dec 7, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan; m. William Alexander, 1950 (div. 1955); m. Paul Roberts, 1957 (div. 1959), m. Neil Burstyn, 1960 (div. 1971); children: (3rd m.) 1 son.

Made Broadway debut in Fair Game (1957); as Ellen McRae, appeared on tv series "The Doctors" (1963) and made film debut in Goodbye Charlie (1964); as Ellen Burstyn, made such films as The King of Marvin Gardens, Harry and Tonto, Providence, A Dream of Passion, Twice in a Lifetime, Hanna's War, The Cemetery Club, How to Make an American Quilt and Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood; on tv, appeared in numerous movies, as well as "The Ellen Burstyn Show" (1986); served as the 1st woman president of Actor's Equity (1982–85) and was co-director (with Al Pacino) of the Actor's Studio (1982–87). Nominated for Oscars for performances in The Last Picture Show (1971), The Exorcist (1973), Same Time Next Year (1978) and Resurrection (1980); awarded an Oscar for Best Actress for Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore and a Tony for Same Time, Next Year (1975).