Piper Laurie

Date of Birth: January 22, 1932

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Biography

Piper Laurie, born Rosetta Jacobs, is an acclaimed American actress known for her diverse roles in film, television, and theater. Born on January 22, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan, she grew up in a Jewish family and pursued acting from a young age. Laurie’s career began in the late 1940s when she signed a contract with Universal Studios, leading to roles in several films throughout the 1950s. Her breakthrough came with the 1961 film “The Hustler,” where she starred opposite Paul Newman, earning her first Academy Award nomination. Laurie took a break from acting in the mid-1960s but returned in the 1970s to deliver several memorable performances. Notably, she played the fanatical mother in “Carrie” (1976), a role that earned her another Oscar nomination. Laurie’s career expanded to television, where she received critical acclaim for her work in “Twin Peaks” (1990-1991), earning her an Emmy nomination. She continued acting in both film and television into the 2000s, showcasing her versatility and enduring talent.

5 Interesting Facts about Piper Laurie

1. Piper Laurie changed her name from Rosetta Jacobs to Piper Laurie to sound more appealing in the entertainment industry.

2. She took a hiatus from acting in the mid-1960s to focus on her personal life and explore other interests.

3. Laurie’s role in “The Hustler” (1961) marked her transition from being perceived as a starlet to a serious actress.

4. She was nominated for three Academy Awards throughout her career.

5. Laurie is also an accomplished painter, often using her artwork to express her personal experiences and emotions.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Piper Laurie

1. “You can’t be an artist and be safe.”

2. “Acting is like painting pictures with words.”

3. “I had to make a choice between being a starlet or an actress.”

4. “I’ve always wanted to explore different facets of myself through my roles.”

5. “Art should disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth achieved by Piper Laurie is estimated to be around $10 million.

Children

Piper Laurie has one child, a daughter named Anne Grace Morgenstern, born in 1971 from her marriage to film critic Joseph Morgenstern. The couple divorced in 1982.