Ellen Burstyn | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : April 08, 2025

Who is Ellen Burstyn?

Ellen Burstyn, born Edna Rae Gillooly on December 7, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan, is a celebrated American actress known for her impactful contributions to theater, television, and film. Throughout her illustrious career, Burstyn has been nominated for the Academy Award six times, winning once for her remarkable performance in Martin Scorsese’s "Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore" in 1975. She gained recognition in the early 1970s with pivotal roles in films like "The Last Picture Show" and the horror classic "The Exorcist," where she portrayed Chris MacNeil, a role she will reprise in the upcoming film "The Exorcist: Believer."

Beyond her cinematic achievements, Burstyn has enjoyed a successful career in television, earning critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards for her performances in various miniseries and TV films. Notably, she served as the first female president of the Actors’ Equity Association from 1982 to 1985 and has been a co-president of The Actors Studio since 1995 alongside prominent figures like Al Pacino and Alec Baldwin. Ellen's rich background, marked by overcoming personal challenges and professional triumphs, showcases her resilience and enduring presence in the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Education

Ellen Burstyn was born Edna Rae Gillooly on December 7, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan. Her early life was marked by hardship, particularly following her parents' divorce when she was very young. Raised in a turbulent household, she faced challenges stemming from an emotionally abusive relationship with her mother, Correine Marie Gillooly. Burstyn has spoken openly about the violence and control that characterized her upbringing, which contributed to feelings of unworthiness. Despite these challenges, she remained determined to carve out a life for herself in the arts, illustrating a resilience that would serve her throughout her career.

At the age of 18, Burstyn left home with only 50 cents in her pocket, seeking opportunities in modeling and acting. This pivotal decision marked the beginning of her journey in the entertainment industry, leading her to various acting roles. In the late 1950s, she found her footing in television, initially performing on "The Jackie Gleason Show," where she adopted the stage name Erica Dean. As she transitioned from television to theater, her dedication and talent shone through, ultimately laying the foundational stones for her illustrious career in film and stage acting.

Early Career: Theater, "The Exorcist," and Oscar Win

Ellen Burstyn’s early career blossomed in the late 1950s when she landed her first consistent acting job as a dancer on television's The Jackie Gleason Show, where she was billed as Erica Dean. Shortly after, she made her Broadway debut in 1957 with the play Fair Game, adopting the stage name Ellen McRae. For the next decade, she continued to work in television and theater, appearing in daytime dramas like The Doctors and the western series The Iron Horse. Despite her diligence, she only achieved moderate success until she transitioned to the name Ellen Burstyn, which marked the beginning of her rise to stardom.

Her breakthrough role came in 1971 with the film The Last Picture Show, in which she portrayed Lois Farrow. This performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, propelling her into the spotlight. The following year, Burstyn’s role as Chris MacNeil in William Friedkin's groundbreaking horror film The Exorcist solidified her status in Hollywood and garnered her a second Oscar nomination, this time for Best Actress. Burstyn's powerful portrayal of a mother battling the possession of her daughter showcased her remarkable talent, setting the stage for even greater achievements in her career as she went on to win her first Oscar for Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore in 1975.

Television Success

Ellen Burstyn has established herself not only as a cinematic icon but also as a formidable presence on television. Her successful transition to the small screen began in the early 1980s, marked by a standout performance in the miniseries "The People vs. Jean Harris," which earned her critical acclaim and an Emmy nomination. She continued to build an impressive television portfolio throughout the decade, featuring in notable dramatic TV movies, including "Surviving" and "Into Thin Air." Burstyn's versatility also led her to explore comedy with "The Ellen Burstyn Show," showcasing her range and adaptability as an actress.

In the years that followed, Burstyn's television career flourished with a combination of guest roles and recurring appearances. Her role as a grandmother in the HBO series "Big Love" was nominated for an Emmy, and a guest stint on "Law & Order: SVU" earned her an Emmy Award. Blooming well into the 2000s, she captively portrayed complex characters, further solidifying her reputation in the television landscape. The late 2010s saw her venture into ambitious projects, including a noteworthy appearance in the Netflix series "House of Cards," where her talent and experience continued to resonate with audiences and critics alike.

Beyond her acclaimed performances, Burstyn's dedication to her craft and the acting community is evident in her leadership roles. She served as the first female president of the Actors' Equity Association and has been a co-president of The Actors Studio since 1995. In this capacity, she plays a vital role in nurturing emerging talent in the industry. Ellen Burstyn exemplifies the later-life transition many actors aspire to achieve, continuing to take on compelling television roles that reflect her commitment to portraying rich, multifaceted characters.

"Requiem for a Dream" and More Movies

Ellen Burstyn, predominantly recognized for her remarkable contributions to both theater and film, showcased her unparalleled talent in various roles across the decades. Among her most notable performances is the intense and haunting role in Darren Aronofsky’s "Requiem for a Dream," released in 2000. In this critically acclaimed film, Burstyn portrayed Sara Goldfarb, a woman spiraling into addiction. Her commitment to the role was profound, as she underwent significant physical and emotional transformations. This powerful performance not only garnered her a sixth Academy Award nomination but solidified her status as a leading actress capable of conveying deep psychological struggles.

Beyond "Requiem for a Dream," Burstyn’s film career has traversed an impressive array of genres and themes. In the years following her acclaimed performance, she appeared in films such as "Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood" (2002) alongside a star-studded cast, and later, in various roles, she graced the screen in "Interstellar" (2014) and "The Age of Adaline" (2015). Her versatility and ability to captivate audiences in both ensemble casts and lead roles remarkably underline her enduring legacy in the film industry. As she continues to take on new projects, including her return in "The Exorcist: Believer," Burstyn remains an inspiring figure in cinema.

"The Exorcist: Believer"

Ellen Burstyn, born Edna Rae Gillooly on December 7, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan, has garnered worldwide acclaim as an accomplished actress through her extensive work in film, theater, and television. With six Academy Award nominations to her name, her career highlights are defined by powerful performances, most notably her role as Chris MacNeil in the 1973 horror classic The Exorcist. At 90 years old, Burstyn is reprising this iconic character in the highly anticipated sequel, The Exorcist: Believer, set for release on October 13, 2023. Burstyn's decision to return to the franchise follows her longstanding reluctance, which shifted when production agreed to fund a scholarship program at Pace University, where she teaches.

Burstyn's impressive career trajectory began with her breakthrough role in The Last Picture Show (1971), which earned her a Best Supporting Actress nomination. Following this, her haunting portrayal of Chris MacNeil in The Exorcist received considerable critical acclaim and a Best Actress nomination. In 1975, her role in Martin Scorsese’s Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, solidifying her status in Hollywood. Throughout her career, she has seamlessly transitioned between film and television, showing remarkable versatility across genres, including memorable performances in both dramatic and comedic roles. Burstyn’s influence extends beyond acting, as she has also held notable positions within the theater community, including serving as co-president of The Actors Studio.

Husbands and Son

Ellen Burstyn has experienced three marriages throughout her life, each bringing its own challenges and lessons. Her first husband, William C. Alexander, was a poet, and their marriage lasted approximately five years in the mid-1950s. The union did not produce any children but marked the beginning of Burstyn’s journey through relationships as she pursued her career in acting. She later met her second husband, Paul Roberts, while working on her first Broadway show, Fair Game. Together, they adopted a son, Jefferson, in 1961, shortly before their divorce. Despite their separation, Burstyn maintained a close relationship with Jefferson, drawing inspiration from their bond for her role in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore.

Ellen's third marriage to Neil Burstyn proved to be the most tumultuous. Neil was a promising actor and writer but struggled with schizophrenia, which ultimately led to violent behavior. They married in 1964, but Ellen faced numerous challenges during their time together, including periods of stalking and emotional turmoil. After their separation and Neil's tragic death by suicide in 1978, Ellen wrestled with guilt, feeling that her burgeoning career may have contributed to his struggles. Their relationship and her feelings of guilt later found a voice in her memoir, Lessons in Becoming Myself. Through these experiences, Burstyn has shown resilience, balancing her professional life while navigating complex personal trials.

Net Worth

Ellen Burstyn, born Edna Rae Gillooly on December 7, 1932, is a renowned American actress known for her versatile performances across film, theater, and television. With a celebrated career spanning over six decades, Burstyn has garnered multiple accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actress in 1975 for her role in "Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore," solidifying her status as a leading figure in the entertainment industry. She initially gained recognition through her performances in "The Last Picture Show" and the iconic horror film "The Exorcist," which have since become benchmarks in cinematic history.

Beyond her impressive acting resume, Burstyn has made significant contributions to the theatrical community, serving as the first female president of the Actors’ Equity Association and co-president of The Actors Studio alongside Al Pacino and Alec Baldwin. Her influence extends to mentoring aspiring actors, showcasing her commitment not only to her craft but also to fostering new talent. As she prepares to reprise her iconic role as Chris MacNeil in "The Exorcist: Believer," Burstyn continues to leave an indelible mark on the film industry.

Ellen Burstyn's net worth is estimated to be around $20 million, reflecting her successful career and various endeavors in acting, directing, and producing. This financial success is a testament to not only her talent and dedication but also her ability to navigate the evolving demands of show business. As she embarks on new projects, Burstyn remains a celebrated figure whose wealth is complemented by a rich legacy of artistic achievement and social contribution within the entertainment realm.