Estelle Parsons

Date of Birth: November 20, 1927

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Biography

Estelle Parsons is an acclaimed American actress, director, and singer known for her work on stage, film, and television. Born Estelle Margaret Parsons on November 20, 1927, in Lynn, Massachusetts, she carved out a distinguished career that spans over six decades. After graduating from Connecticut College in 1949, Parsons initially pursued a career in law before shifting focus to acting. She began her career in the theater and quickly gained a reputation for her versatility and powerful performances. Parsons made her Broadway debut in 1956, and her talent soon caught the attention of Hollywood. Her breakthrough film role came in 1967 when she portrayed Blanche Barrow in “Bonnie and Clyde,” a performance that earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She followed this success with another Oscar nomination for her role in “Rachel, Rachel” (1968). Throughout her career, Parsons has continued to work extensively in theater, earning multiple Tony Award nominations and winning accolades for her work in plays like “Miss Margarida’s Way” and “The Shadow Box.” Parsons has also been a prominent figure on television, perhaps best known for her role as Beverly Harris on the long-running sitcom “Roseanne.” In addition to acting, she has directed several stage productions and served as the Artistic Director of the Actors Studio. Known for her dedication to her craft and her ability to imbue her characters with authenticity and depth, Estelle Parsons remains a beloved and respected figure in the arts.

5 Interesting Facts about Estelle Parsons

1. Estelle Parsons won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Bonnie and Clyde” (1967).

2. She was nominated for a Tony Award four times, showcasing her significant contributions to theater.

3. Parsons served as the Artistic Director of the Actors Studio between 1998 and 2003.

4. She has directed several Off-Broadway productions, including “Salvation” and “Miss Margarida’s Way.”

5. Parsons starred in the popular TV sitcom “Roseanne” as Beverly Harris, the mother of the titular character.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Estelle Parsons

1. “You can’t be as old as I am without waking up with a surprised look on your face every morning: ‘Holy Christ, whaddya know – I’m still around!’”

2. “I’ve never been bored a day in my life. I don’t know what boredom means.”

3. “Acting is the most minor of gifts. After all, Shirley Temple could do it when she was four.”

4. “I’m always in awe of people who are totally dedicated to their work, whatever it is.”

5. “The only thing that you have to know is that you have to keep trying.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth Estelle Parsons achieved is estimated to be around $6 million.

Children

Estelle Parsons has three children. She has two daughters, Martha Gehman and Abbie Gehman, from her first marriage to author Richard Gehman. She also has a son, Abraham Parsons, whom she adopted with her second husband, Peter Zimroth.