Patricia Clarkson

A favorite supporting actress in the American independent film world, Yale-trained actress Patricia Clarkson began her career on the New York stage before a false start in mainstream pictures gave way to a prolific career as a film festival favorite. While she worked steadily on stage and in television movies throughout the 1990s, the actress' career really caught fire in the new millennium with a string of critically acclaimed performances in "Far from Heaven" (2002), "The Station Agent" (2003) and "Pieces of April" (2003). Clarkson's genteel, timeless quality made her an in-demand choice for scores of period films, from the caper "Welcome to Collinwood" (2002) to the unfortunate misfire "All the King's Men" (2006) to the fact-based "Good Night, and Good Luck" (2005). On television, Clarkson made several notable appearances, including an Emmy-winning guest starring turn on "Six Feet Under" (HBO, 2001-05). She balanced those roles with nuanced, highly affecting performances in contemporary stories "Lars and the Real Girl" (2007), "Vicky Cristina Barcelona" (2008) and "Easy A" (2010), breaking all Hollywood rules by enjoying continued success as a female character player of a certain age. Regardless of the role, Clarkson always brought a high degree of talent and professionalism that allowed her to flourish as one of Hollywood's most sought after supporting actresses.