Laurie Metcalf | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : April 09, 2025

Who is Laurie Metcalf?

Laurie Metcalf is a highly regarded American actress known for her versatile performances in both television and theater. Born on June 16, 1955, in Carbondale, Illinois, she emerged as a significant talent in the 1970s as one of the original ensemble members of the Steppenwolf Theatre Company. Metcalf gained nationwide fame for her role as Jackie Harris in the iconic sitcom "Roseanne," earning three Emmy Awards for her portrayal of the quirky and loving sister of the lead character. Her role in "Roseanne" not only showcased her comedic talent but also solidified her status as a prominent figure in American television.

Throughout her career, Metcalf has made notable contributions to film and animation, voicing characters in the beloved "Toy Story" franchise and appearing in critically acclaimed movies such as "JFK" and "Lady Bird," the latter of which earned her an Academy Award nomination. Beyond her television and film achievements, Metcalf has maintained a strong presence in theater, securing multiple Tony Award nominations for her outstanding performances. Her commitment to the craft and ability to tackle diverse roles have made her a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Education

Laurie Metcalf, born Lauren Elizabeth Metcalf on June 16, 1955, in Carbondale, Illinois, and raised in Edwardsville, developed an interest in performance at a young age. As a shy child, she found that her inhibitions faded when she stepped onto the stage, leading her to participate in various school productions at Edwardsville High School. This initial connection with acting ignited a passion that she would later pursue professionally, despite her early inclination to focus on more practical subjects in college.

Metcalf attended Illinois State University, where she initially majored in German and later switched to anthropology to align with her practical mindset. Despite her academic focus, her love for theater persisted, prompting her to take part in a class production of What the Butler Saw. Influenced by her classmate Terry Kinney, she dedicated herself to acting and ultimately graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in theater in 1976. Her newfound commitment led her to become an original member of the prestigious Steppenwolf Theatre Company, where she honed her craft alongside future stars like John Malkovich and Gary Sinise.

Career Rise and "Roseanne"

Laurie Metcalf’s career took a definitive turn with her role as Jackie Harris on the groundbreaking sitcom Roseanne, which premiered in 1988. The show, centered around the life of a working-class family, resonated with audiences and quickly gained a reputation for its authentic portrayal of everyday struggles. Metcalf’s portrayal of Jackie, who often found herself tangled in wild schemes, showcased her exceptional talent and earned her critical acclaim. Her performance won her three consecutive Emmy Awards for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series from 1992 to 1994, firmly establishing her as a comedic force and a household name.

Following the immense success of Roseanne, Metcalf continued to expand her repertoire both on screen and in film. She appeared in notable projects such as Uncle Buck (1989), JFK (1991), and Toy Story (1995), where she lent her voice to the supportive mother character. Beyond her television endeavors, Metcalf also embraced opportunities in theater, further honing her craft. Her dedication to acting was evident as she transitioned seamlessly between mediums—TV, film, and stage—proving her versatility and commitment to her art. The success of Roseanne set the stage for a dynamic and multifaceted career, allowing Metcalf to explore diverse roles for decades to come.

Later Successes

Laurie Metcalf's career continued to thrive after the end of "Roseanne" in 1997, as she successfully transitioned between film and television. She appeared in notable films such as "Scream 2," "Bulworth," and "Toy Story 2," showcasing her versatility as both comedic and dramatic talent. Her work on television also flourished, with memorable guest roles in series like "3rd Rock from the Sun," "Monk," and "Desperate Housewives," earning multiple Emmy nominations. Additionally, her three-season run on the sitcom "Norm" further solidified her status in the television landscape.

In the theater realm, Metcalf never strayed far from her roots. She received her first Tony Award nomination in 2008 for her role in David Mamet's "November," and followed it up with acclaimed performances in "The Other Place" and "Misery," garnering additional nominations. As a testament to her enduring connection to Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Metcalf was honored in 2015, recognizing its evolution into a leading theater organization in the United States. Her continuous dedication to both stage and screen has solidified her legacy as an outstanding actress.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

Laurie Metcalf's personal life has seen her navigate two marriages, each bringing unique experiences and challenges. She first married actor Jeff Perry in 1983, a relationship that lasted nearly a decade before they divorced in 1992. Their union was marked by professional mutual respect, as both were involved in the theater scene. Metcalf then married actor Matt Roth in 2005, and they remained together for nearly a decade, welcoming the challenges of balancing their careers and family life until their eventual split in 2014.

Throughout her marriages, Laurie has been a devoted mother, raising four children. Her eldest daughter, Zoe Perry, has followed in her footsteps and embarked on an acting career, showcasing the family's strong theatrical lineage. Metcalf's commitment to her children remains steadfast, providing them with guidance and support while continuing to thrive in her professional life as a celebrated actress.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary

Laurie Metcalf, an esteemed actress with a prolific career spanning stage, television, and film, has built a formidable net worth largely attributable to her diverse roles. As an original ensemble member of the prestigious Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Metcalf garnered significant attention on Broadway and subsequently transitioned to television, where she became a household name as Jackie Harris on the groundbreaking sitcom Roseanne. Her talent not only earned her critical acclaim, including multiple Emmy Awards, but also boosted her earning potential. It is estimated that her net worth hovers around $14 million, reflecting a successful career marked by versatility and acclaim.

In addition to her television success, Metcalf has made notable contributions to the film industry, voicing a key character in Pixar's Toy Story franchise and receiving accolades for her performance in Lady Bird, which helped elevate her profile even further. Throughout her career, she has maintained a strong presence in theater, earning Tony Award nominations for her compelling performances in productions like November and Misery. With her ability to seamlessly transition between mediums, Laurie Metcalf continues to be a significant figure in entertainment, and her impressive earnings are a testament to her enduring talent and dedication.

FAQs

What is Laurie Metcalf known for?

Laurie Metcalf is best known for her role as Jackie Harris on the sitcom "Roseanne," which garnered her critical acclaim and several Emmy Awards. She has also made significant contributions to film, voice acting in the "Toy Story" series, and received recognition for her work on various television shows.

What awards has Laurie Metcalf won?

Metcalf has received numerous awards throughout her career, including three Emmy Awards for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in "Roseanne." Additionally, she has been nominated for Tony Awards and received a Golden Globe nomination for her performance in the film "Lady Bird."

Where did Laurie Metcalf grow up?

Laurie Metcalf was born in Carbondale, Illinois, and grew up in Edwardsville, Illinois, where she developed an interest in acting during her time in high school.

What is her educational background?

Metcalf attended Illinois State University, initially majoring in German and anthropology, before ultimately earning a Bachelor of Arts in Theater, which propelled her career in acting.

Is Laurie Metcalf involved in theater?

Yes, Laurie Metcalf has remained deeply involved in theater throughout her career. She was an original ensemble member of the Steppenwolf Theatre Company and has received critical acclaim for her performances in plays, earning several Tony Award nominations.

Has Laurie Metcalf's family been involved in acting?

Yes, Laurie Metcalf's family includes her daughter, Zoe Perry, who has followed in her footsteps and pursued a career in acting, showcasing the artistic talent that runs in the family.

What are some of Laurie Metcalf's notable films?

Some of Laurie Metcalf's notable films include "Uncle Buck," "JFK," "Leaving Las Vegas," and "Lady Bird," where her performance earned her an Academy Award nomination.

What television shows has Laurie Metcalf appeared in?

Besides "Roseanne," Laurie Metcalf has appeared in various television shows, including "The Big Bang Theory," "3rd Rock from the Sun," "Monk," and "Getting On," showcasing her versatility in both comedy and drama.