She’s an acclaimed actress best known for her standout role as the fierce cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester on the hit TV series Glee. Her performance not only captured audiences but also earned her critical acclaim, including an Emmy Award and a People’s Choice Award for Favorite TV Comedy Actress. Over the years, she has built an impressive film resume with memorable appearances in movies like The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Role Models, Another Cinderella Story, and Talladega Nights. Before rising to fame, she honed her craft at the Annoyance Theater, where she shared the stage—and formed a lasting friendship—with actor Andy Richter. In her personal life, she was married to clinical psychologist Lara Embry from 2010 until their separation in 2014. Her journey, marked by talent, dedication, and resilience, continues to inspire fans around the world.
She’s known for bringing a variety of memorable characters to life, and her talent really shines through in the roles she’s taken on over the years. She portrayed the quirky Cindi Lightballoon on Arrested Development, a role that added a unique flair to the show’s already eccentric cast. Then, she stepped into the shoes of Constance Carmell on Party Down, delivering sharp comedic timing that fans loved. On the animation front, she voiced the strong-willed Calhoun in Disney’s 2012 hit Wreck-It Ralph, a performance that resonated with audiences of all ages. She also lent her voice to Diatryma Mom in Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs, adding depth to the prehistoric world with her vocal range. And in a fun twist, she made a guest appearance on iCarly, where she played none other than Sam Puckett’s mother—a role that brought both humor and heart to the episode. She continues to impress with her versatility, proving time and again that she can handle comedy, drama, and everything in between.