Quick Wiki
- Full Name Elisabeth Singleton Moss
- Birth Date Jul 24, 1982
- Age 42 Years, 6 Months
- Birthplace Los Angeles, California, United States
- Occupation Actor, producer
- Parents Ron Moss, Linda Moss
Elisabeth Moss | Biography
Elisabeth Moss is a celebrated actress recognized for her powerful performances in television and film. She gained fame with roles in Girl, Interrupted and The Handmaid's Tale, winning multiple awards for her work.
Who is Elisabeth Moss?
Elisabeth Moss is a prominent American actress born on July 24, 1982, in Los Angeles, California. Renowned for her versatility and depth, she initially pursued a career in ballet before making a significant shift to acting. Her breakout role came at the young age of 16 when she starred as Polly in the acclaimed film "Girl, Interrupted", alongside Angelina Jolie. This role set the stage for her to showcase her talent in various television shows, most notably as Zoey Bartlet in "The West Wing", where she portrayed the president's daughter with depth and authenticity.
Moss garnered further recognition as Peggy Olson in the critically acclaimed series "Mad Men", a role that earned her multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. Critics praised her portrayal of a strong female character navigating the challenges of a male-dominated workplace in the 1960s. Her talent culminated in an Emmy and a Golden Globe win for her performance in the dystopian series "The Handmaid's Tale", where she plays Offred, a woman seeking freedom in an oppressive society. Moss's ability to tackle complex characters has truly established her as one of the leading actresses of her generation.
Early Life and Education
Elisabeth Moss was born on July 24, 1982, in Los Angeles, California, into a family steeped in music. Her parents, Ron, a jazz artist and manager, and Linda, a blues harmonica player, fostered a creative environment that inspired Elisabeth from a young age. Describing herself as a "serious, focused" child, she gravitated toward the performing arts, particularly enjoying an imaginative pastime of playing "library" at home. This foundation ignited her passion for performance, solidifying her desire to pursue a career in acting from a very young age.
Moss's early career began with ballet, leading her to New York to study at the School of American Ballet. She later trained with Suzanne Farrell at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. This dedication to dance allowed Moss to cultivate her performing skills in a pressure-free environment, alleviating the burden often felt by child actors. By the age of 10, she made her acting debut in the film adaptation of the Broadway musical "Gypsy", showcasing the remarkable talent she had developed through her formative years. Moss was subsequently home-schooled by a private tutor, which enabled her to graduate high school two years early at just 16 years old.
Notable Career Start: Girl, Interrupted
Elisabeth Moss's career took a significant leap forward with her role in the 1999 film "Girl, Interrupted", where she starred alongside big names, including Angelina Jolie and Whoopi Goldberg. At just 16 years old, Moss played the character Polly, a teenage burn victim, showcasing her extraordinary talent and emotional depth. Her performance was so compelling that many on set, including Goldberg, believed she was an actual burn victim, reflecting her dedication to the role. This breakthrough not only highlighted her acting prowess but also set the tone for her future, indicating that she was more than just a young performer; she was a serious actress to watch.
Following "Girl, Interrupted", Moss's presence on television further solidified her status as a rising star. She landed a recurring role as Zoey Bartlet, the daughter of President Jed Bartlet, in the critically acclaimed television series "The West Wing". This opportunity allowed her to develop her acting skills in a prominent and well-researched environment, contributing to her versatility as an actress. The success of her early roles paved the way for Moss to take on more substantial projects, culminating in her unforgettable portrayal of Peggy Olson in "Mad Men", which further propelled her career to new heights.
Career Success and Achievements: The Handmaid's Tale
Elisabeth Moss’s portrayal of Offred in the critically acclaimed series The Handmaid's Tale marks a significant milestone in her career. Adapted from Margaret Atwood's dystopian novel, Moss brings depth to the character of a fertile woman navigating an oppressive regime that subjugates women. Her performance has been hailed as powerful and nuanced, showcasing her ability to embody complex emotions and challenges. The show has resonated deeply with audiences, emphasizing themes of autonomy and survival, reflecting contemporary societal issues.
Moss's work in The Handmaid's Tale has earned her numerous accolades, including both Emmy and Golden Globe awards, solidifying her status as one of the industry’s leading talents. The series premiered in 2017 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon, with Moss’s character often at the center of intense dramatic narratives. Her commitment to the role extended beyond the first season, as she continued to impress critics and fans alike through subsequent seasons, enhancing the show's legacy and her own career as a dynamic and versatile actress.
Recent Projects and Collaborations
Elisabeth Moss has continued to solidify her status as a versatile actress through a series of compelling projects in recent years. Following her acclaimed role in "The Handmaid's Tale," she appeared in the 2018 film "Her Smell," directed by Alex Ross Perry, which showcased her range as she portrayed a troubled rock musician navigating the highs and lows of fame. This collaboration with Perry was notable, given their history of working together on previous projects. Moss exhibited an intense, raw performance that resonated with audiences, further proving her ability to tackle complex and challenging roles.
In 2019, Moss also ventured into the horror genre with Jordan Peele's highly anticipated film "Us." Although her role was relatively brief, it demonstrated her knack for versatility, showcasing her ability to excel even in smaller parts within bigger productions. Shortly after, she starred in the 2020 reboot of "The Invisible Man," which became a major box office success and received critical acclaim. Combining elements of horror with a powerful feminist narrative, Moss’s performance as Cecilia Kass allowed her to take center stage, reinforcing her reputation as one of the most talented and dedicated actresses of her generation.
Personal Life: Married Life and Past Relationship
Elisabeth Moss married comedian and musician Fred Armisen in October 2009, a union that garnered attention due to their high-profile careers and the unlikely pairing of a serious actress with a comedic actor. The couple had initially met through Moss's co-star Jon Hamm, who introduced them during a 2008 episode of Saturday Night Live. Despite their initial chemistry, the marriage was short-lived; they announced their separation just eight months later. Moss has publicly commented on the experience, noting how their differences ultimately led to their split and emphasizing the lessons learned from the relationship.
Moss's commitment to her craft has always been a priority, and she credits her faith in Scientology as a grounding force during tumultuous times, including her tumultuous marriage to Armisen. She believes that the organization provided her with stability in the often chaotic entertainment industry, helping her navigate the pressures of fame and acting. Despite the challenges faced in her personal life, Moss continues to focus on her career and personal growth, aiming to balance her professional commitments with her private life.
Net Worth and Earning: Salary and Financial Status
Elisabeth Moss's net worth is estimated to be around $30 million, a testament to her successful acting career that spans over two decades. Much of her wealth comes from her roles in prominent television series and films, particularly her acclaimed work in "Mad Men" and "The Handmaid's Tale." Moss has reportedly earned a substantial salary for her lead role in "The Handmaid's Tale," estimated to be in the range of $1 million per episode, which highlights her value in the television industry. Additionally, her involvement in theater and film has further contributed to her financial status, enhancing her portfolio and marketability as an actress.
Beyond her acting earnings, Moss has made strategic choices in her career that have not only increased her visibility but also her earning potential. Collaborations with acclaimed directors and her versatility in both drama and comedy have established her as a sought-after talent in Hollywood. Ventures into production have also played a role in her financial success, as she has transitioned from simply being in front of the camera to participating behind the scenes. As she continues to take on challenging and diverse roles, Elisabeth Moss's net worth is likely to grow even further, solidifying her position as one of the leading figures in the entertainment industry.
FAQs
What is Elisabeth Moss known for?
Elisabeth Moss is best known for her powerful performances in television and film, particularly for her roles in acclaimed series such as The West Wing, Mad Men, and The Handmaid's Tale. Her portrayal of Peggy Olson in Mad Men earned her critical acclaim and numerous award nominations.
What awards has Elisabeth Moss won?
Moss has received several prestigious awards, including a Golden Globe Award for her role in Top of the Lake and multiple Emmy and Golden Globe wins for her leading role in The Handmaid's Tale. Her talent has been recognized widely in the entertainment industry.
What is Elisabeth Moss’s background?
Born on July 24, 1982, in Los Angeles, California, Elisabeth Moss grew up in a musical family. Initially a ballet dancer, her career shifted towards acting at a young age. She made her professional debut at six and achieved early success with a pivotal role in the film Girl, Interrupted.
Has Elisabeth Moss worked on Broadway?
Yes, Moss made her Broadway debut in David Mamet's play Speed-the-Plow in 2008. She has also received a Tony Award nomination for her performance in the revival of Wendy Wasserstein's The Heidi Chronicles, showcasing her versatility across different performance mediums.
What other films has Elisabeth Moss starred in?
In addition to her television work, Elisabeth Moss has appeared in various films, including The One I Love, Queen of Earth, and The Invisible Man. Her work often features collaborations with noted directors and showcases her range as an actress across genres.
What is Elisabeth Moss's connection to Scientology?
Elisabeth Moss is a member of the Church of Scientology, which she credits for providing her with stability and sanity in her career. She believes that the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard have helped her navigate the stresses of Hollywood.
What early role launched Elisabeth Moss's career?
Moss's career took off with her role as Polly, a teenage burn victim in the film Girl, Interrupted, alongside notable stars like Angelina Jolie. This role showcased her emotional depth and talent, paving the way for her future successes in the industry.
