Celebrity Info
She’s a casting director whose name has become synonymous with discovering fresh talent and shaping some of the most memorable performances in modern film and television. Known for her work on major projects like The Martian, Now You See Me, and The Knick, she’s built a reputation as a go-to casting director for high-profile productions. But it’s perhaps her role in finding the young stars of the wildly popular Netflix series Stranger Things that truly solidified her status in Hollywood. As a casting director, her eye for authentic, compelling performers continues to set her apart.
Before stepping into the spotlight as a casting director, her journey began in an unexpected way. Early on, she was offered a chance to appear on the MTV reality show The Real World. Instead of taking the on-camera route, she made a bold move—she asked for a behind-the-scenes internship. That decision opened doors. She soon found herself working under the mentorship of Margery Simkin, contributing to casting efforts on acclaimed films like Erin Brockovich and Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. These experiences laid the foundation for her future success.
As a casting director, her official debut came in 1995 when she worked on the TV series Road Rules. From there, her career took off, blending international insight with a deep understanding of character and story. Born in New York, she spent much of her childhood being raised across Lima and La Paz, Bolivia—experiences that likely shaped her global perspective and sensitivity to diverse voices in casting.
On a personal note, she married and became a mother to two children, balancing family life with a demanding career. Throughout it all, she’s remained a powerful force behind the scenes, consistently proving why she’s one of the most respected names in the industry. Whether she’s casting a blockbuster film or a breakout series, her influence as a casting director is both far-reaching and enduring.
She’s widely recognized for her impressive achievements, particularly when it comes to award-winning casting work. Over the years, she has earned multiple Primetime Emmy Awards, solidifying her reputation as a top talent in the industry. One of her standout wins came in 2013, when she took home the award for Outstanding Casting for a Miniseries for her work on Behind the Candelabra. Then, a few years later, in 2017, she did it again—this time winning Outstanding Casting for a Drama Series for the wildly popular Stranger Things. Her contributions continue to shape some of the most memorable shows on television, and she remains a key figure behind the scenes.
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