Celebrity Info
She’s the independent film darling who made a major splash with her performance in the critically acclaimed Upstream Color—a role that earned her a third Gotham Independent Film Award nomination. Prior to that, she had already been recognized for her standout work in Sun Don’t Shine and Tiny Furniture, both of which brought her earlier nods from the Gotham Awards. By 2019, her career continued to gain momentum when she starred in the second film adaptation of Stephen King’s chilling novel Pet Sematary, showcasing her range beyond the indie scene. Over the years, she’s also collected acting honors at various film festivals for her roles in The Myth of the American Sleepover and A Horrible Way To Die, further solidifying her reputation as a compelling and versatile performer.
Before all the acclaim, though, she was just trying to make ends meet while learning the ins and outs of filmmaking. She took on a variety of odd jobs—nanny, waitress, seamstress—to support herself during those early years. Her journey into the industry actually began behind the camera; she started by producing and directing short films and low-budget indies, including Barry Jenkins’ breakout project Medicine for Melancholy. Film school helped lay the foundation, but it was her move to Los Angeles, California, that really opened doors. Raised in the Tampa-St. Petersburg area of Florida, she carried that quiet resilience from her roots into her evolving career. On a personal note, she got engaged in 2013 to Shane Carruth, the visionary director behind Upstream Color, marking a significant chapter both professionally and personally.
She was not just an actress but also took on multiple roles behind the scenes, serving as an executive producer, writer, and director for the Starz television series The Girlfriend Experience. Her involvement in the show highlighted her versatility and creative vision, with her name becoming increasingly recognized across different aspects of production. She brought a unique perspective to the project, balancing her on-screen performance with leadership in shaping the series’ direction. Her name truly became synonymous with innovation and talent throughout her work on The Girlfriend Experience.
United States
