24 Facts About Frances Sternhagen

Early Life and Education

Frances Sternhagen's journey began long before she graced the stage and screen. Her early years laid the foundation for a remarkable career.

1. Frances Sternhagen was born on January 13, 1930, in Washington, D.C.
2. She attended Vassar College, where she majored in drama.
3. Sternhagen further honed her acting skills at the Perry Mansfield School of the Theatre in Colorado.
4. She also studied at the Catholic University of America, where she earned a degree in drama.

Career Beginnings

Sternhagen's career took off in the 1950s, and she quickly became a respected name in the industry.

5. Her professional acting debut was in the off-Broadway production of "The Skin of Our Teeth" in 1955.
6. She made her Broadway debut in 1956 in "The Great Sebastians."
7. Sternhagen won her first Obie Award for her performance in "The Admirable Bashville" in 1955.
8. She appeared in numerous television shows during the 1950s, including "Studio One" and "The Philco Television Playhouse."

Broadway Success

Broadway became a significant part of Sternhagen's career, where she earned critical acclaim and numerous awards.

9. Frances Sternhagen won her first Tony Award in 1974 for her role in "The Good Doctor."
10. She received her second Tony Award in 1995 for her performance in "The Heiress."
11. Sternhagen was nominated for a Tony Award six times throughout her career.
12. She starred in the original Broadway production of "On Golden Pond" in 1979.

Television and Film Roles

Sternhagen's talent extended beyond the stage, making her a familiar face on both television and in movies.

13. She played Bunny MacDougal, Trey MacDougal's mother, on "Sex and the City."
14. Sternhagen appeared in the popular TV series "Cheers" as Esther Clavin, Cliff Clavin's mother.
15. She had a recurring role on "ER" as Millicent Carter, John Carter's grandmother.
16. Sternhagen starred in the 1981 film "Outland" alongside Sean Connery.

Awards and Recognition

Her contributions to the arts have not gone unnoticed, earning her numerous accolades over the years.

17. Frances Sternhagen received a Drama Desk Award for her performance in "Driving Miss Daisy" in 1987.
18. She was inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame in 1998.
19. Sternhagen won an Outer Critics Circle Award for her role in "Morning's at Seven" in 2002.
20. She received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Drama League in 2007.

Personal Life

Beyond her professional achievements, Sternhagen's personal life has also been noteworthy.

21. Frances Sternhagen married actor and director Thomas Carlin in 1956.
22. The couple had six children together.
23. Sternhagen and Carlin remained married until his death in 1991.
24. She has been involved in various charitable organizations, including the Actors Fund and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

Frances Sternhagen: A Legacy of Talent

Frances Sternhagen's career spans decades, showcasing her versatility and dedication to the arts. From Broadway to television, her performances have left a lasting impact. Winning multiple Tony Awards and being nominated for Emmys, she’s proven her exceptional talent time and again. Her roles in "Misery," "The Closer," and "Sex and the City" highlight her range and ability to captivate audiences. Beyond acting, Sternhagen's commitment to her craft and her influence on future generations of actors is undeniable. Her legacy is one of passion, skill, and an unwavering love for the stage and screen. As we reflect on her contributions, it’s clear that Frances Sternhagen remains a cherished figure in the entertainment world. Her story inspires, reminding us of the power of dedication and talent in shaping a remarkable career.