50 Facts About Susan Sarandon

Early Life and Education

Susan Sarandon's journey to stardom began in New York City and continued through her education in New Jersey and Washington, D.C.

1. Susan Abigail Sarandon was born on October 4, 1946, in New York City.
2. Her parents were Lewis J. Tomalin, an advertising executive, and Philomena Tomalin, a nurse.
3. Sarandon is the eldest of nine siblings, including four brothers and four sisters.
4. She attended Edison High School in New Jersey.
5. Sarandon graduated with a degree in drama from the Catholic University of America in 1968.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Before becoming a household name, Sarandon worked in various roles, including modeling and soap operas.

6. Sarandon worked as a model before her acting career took off.
7. She appeared in small film roles and television work, including soap operas like A World Apart and Search for Tomorrow.
8. Her breakthrough role came in 1970 with the film Joe.
9. Although she did not get the part initially, she was offered a major role after an improvisation session.

Iconic Roles

Sarandon's career is marked by several iconic roles that have defined her as a versatile actress.

10. In 1975, Sarandon starred in the cult classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
11. Her performance in Pretty Baby (1978) showcased her talent in playing complex characters.
12. In 1981, Sarandon received her first Academy Award nomination for her role in Atlantic City.
13. Her role in The Hunger (1983) as a scientist-turned-vampire demonstrated her versatility.
14. In Bull Durham (1988), Sarandon played a sultry literature instructor.
15. Her performance in Thelma & Louise (1991) earned her another Academy Award nomination.

Award-Winning Performances

Sarandon's talent has been recognized with numerous awards and nominations.

16. In Lorenzo’s Oil (1992), she played a mother searching for a cure for her son’s disease.
17. Her Oscar-winning performance as Sister Helen Prejean in Dead Man Walking (1995) is widely regarded as one of her best.
18. Throughout her career, Sarandon has been nominated for nine Academy Awards.
19. She has also been nominated for nine Golden Globes and six Screen Actors Guild Awards.
20. Sarandon has won one Oscar, one British Academy of Film and Television Arts award, and one Screen Actors Guild award.

Activism and Humanitarian Work

Sarandon is known for her courageous commitment to social and political causes.

21. Sarandon is a UNICEF goodwill ambassador, advocating for children's rights and humanitarian causes.
22. She has been involved in several political protests, including an anti-Trump protest in Washington, D.C. in 2018.
23. Sarandon's anti-war sentiments were brought to the screen with In the Valley of Elah (2007).
24. She has narrated or appeared in over 49 documentary films, many dealing with social and political issues.
25. Sarandon served as the presenter on many installments of the PBS documentary series Independent Lens.

Personal Life

Sarandon's personal life has been as eventful as her professional career.

26. Sarandon has been married twice, first to Chris Sarandon from 1967 to 1979.
27. She was later married to Tim Robbins from 1988 to 2009.
28. Sarandon has two children, Miles Robbins and Eva Amurri.
29. Despite her busy career, she has faced health issues, including endometriosis.
30. Physicians told her she would require surgery if she wanted to have children, but she became pregnant at 37 and gave birth to her daughter Eva Amurri.

Television and Documentary Work

In addition to her film career, Sarandon has made significant contributions to television and documentaries.

31. Sarandon appeared in the FX miniseries Feud: Bette and Joan in 2017.
32. She has appeared in numerous television shows, including Friends, ER, Rescue Me, and The Big C.
33. Sarandon has also appeared in several HBO projects, such as Bernard and Doris (2006) and You Don’t Know Jack (2010).
34. In 2017-2019, she had a recurring role on the TV series Ray Donovan.
35. Sarandon has appeared in various comedy sketches, including Chappelle’s Show.

Versatility in Film Genres

Sarandon's ability to adapt to different film genres has made her a versatile actress.

36. In The Lovely Bones (2009), she played a maternal character in a supernatural drama.
37. Her role in Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps (2010) showcased her versatility in financial dramas.
38. In Jeff, Who Lives at Home (2011), Sarandon played a comedic role.
39. She appeared in Speed Racer (2008), showcasing her versatility in action films.
40. In The Jesus Rolls (2019), Sarandon continued to demonstrate her range by appearing in a film that blended drama and comedy.

Notable Films and Performances

Sarandon's filmography includes several notable films and performances that have defined her career.

41. In The Client (1994), she played a novice lawyer, earning another Academy Award nomination.
42. Her role in Enchanted (2007) as an evil queen demonstrated her ability to play both dramatic and comedic roles.
43. In Cradle Will Rock (1999), directed by Tim Robbins, Sarandon played a significant role in a left-leaning musical during the 1930s.
44. Her role in Igby Goes Down (2002) showcased her ability to adapt to different genres.
45. In About Ray (2015), Sarandon played a significant role in a dramatic film about a transgender teenager.

Legacy and Impact

Sarandon's career and activism have left a lasting impact on the film industry and beyond.

46. In 2002, Sarandon was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
47. Her dedication to activism and humanitarian work has made her a respected figure both on and off the screen.
48. Sarandon's commitment to social and political causes is a natural outgrowth of her acting profession.
49. Her versatility and emotional depth have made her one of the most enduring and respected figures in the film industry.
50. Sarandon's career is a testament to her talent, versatility, and commitment to making a difference in the world.

Susan Sarandon: A Legacy of Talent and Activism

Susan Sarandon's career is a testament to her versatility and dedication. From her early days in soap operas to her Oscar-winning performance in Dead Man Walking, she's shown an incredible range. Her roles in Thelma & Louise, Bull Durham, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show have left lasting impressions. Beyond acting, Sarandon's commitment to social and political causes sets her apart. As a UNICEF goodwill ambassador and an outspoken activist, she uses her platform for change. Her personal life, including her relationships and health struggles, adds depth to her public persona. With over five decades in the industry, Sarandon remains a respected and influential figure. Her story is one of talent, resilience, and unwavering principles, making her a true icon in Hollywood and beyond.