She’s a talented stage and screen actress who first captured widespread attention with her powerful, Tony-nominated performance in the Broadway hit Doubt. That standout role truly put her on the map and marked the beginning of a promising career. Not long after, she gained even more recognition playing the quirky and memorable Lina Warbler on the short-lived but beloved sitcom The Class. Before all the fame, though, she was honing her craft—after graduating from the prestigious Juilliard School, she made her film debut back in 1996, starring in I’m Not Rappaport, a role that showcased her early talent and set the stage for future success. On a personal note, she found love with her Doubt co-star Brían F. O’Byrne, and the two eventually tied the knot. Together, they’ve built a beautiful life, raising two daughters and supporting each other through their shared journey in the arts. She continues to be admired not just for her performances, but for her grace and dedication both on and off the screen.
She’s had some standout roles in her career, and among her most notable film appearances are School of Rock, where she brought great energy to the screen, Wedding Daze, which showcased her comedic timing, and Leatherheads, a charming period sports film that highlighted her versatility. Her work in these films—especially School of Rock—really solidified her presence in Hollywood. Over the years, her performances in projects like Leatherheads and Wedding Daze have continued to resonate with audiences, proving her lasting appeal.