Celebrity Info
She was a prominent figure in many of director John Waters’s early underground films, truly making a name for herself in the avant-garde scene. On top of her acting career, she also contributed her sharp wit and unique voice to several magazines, showcasing her talent beyond the screen. Before fame took hold, when she was just 11 years old, she wrote her first book—a detailed 321-page account of the Johnstown Flood of 1889. She didn’t just write it; she carefully bound the manuscript herself and proudly placed it on the shelves of her local library, a bold move that hinted at her future ambition. Born Dorothy Karen Mueller, she grew up in Maryland, where she earned the enduring nickname Cookie—a name that stuck with her throughout her life and became part of her identity. Cookie brought authenticity and flair to every project she touched, whether behind the camera or at the typewriter.
She started off writing a health column for the local East Village Eye, and before long, she transitioned into a new role—this time as an art critic for Details magazine. It was during her time at the East Village Eye that she really began to find her voice, and from there, her career continued to grow. She brought the same thoughtful perspective to her art criticism as she had to her earlier health-focused pieces, proving her versatility. Her contributions to Details magazine further solidified her reputation, showing just how capable she was across different genres. All in all, she made a lasting impact, first in the East Village Eye and later through her insightful work at Details.
