Though she was already a celebrated and Tony-winning performer on Broadway, actress Katie Finneran didn’t land her breakout television role until 2013—nearly two decades after she first appeared on the small screen. That role came when she was cast as Michael J. Fox’s sister in The Michael J. Fox Show (NBC, 2013–14). Katie’s professional journey began in the early 1990s, and while she quickly rose from supporting roles on stage in My Favorite Year (1992) to a Tony-winning performance in the comedy Noises Off (2002), her television and film appearances remained mostly limited to guest spots and roles in short-lived series, such as the critically acclaimed Wonderfalls (Fox, 2004).
In 2010, Katie claimed her second Tony Award for a standout performance in the revival of Promises, Promises. That role marked a turning point, propelling her into the spotlight and setting the stage for more high-profile opportunities. Her growing visibility led to a successful run in the 2012 revival of Annie, which she left in order to join the cast of The Michael J. Fox Show. On that series, Finneran delivered a bold, unfiltered performance that earned her widespread praise—even as the show itself struggled to find a consistent audience. It was clear that after years of working steadily but somewhat under the radar in television, Katie had finally reached a new level of recognition and success.
When it comes to Katie Finneran’s filmography, fans and critics alike often point to Freaky (2020) as her standout performance—arguably her highest rated movie to date. It’s no surprise that Katie Finneran shines in this genre-bending thriller, bringing both intensity and nuance to her role. On the other end of the spectrum, Baby on Board (2008) tends to come up as one of her less acclaimed projects, landing as her lowest rated film so far. While Katie Finneran brings her signature charm even to lighter roles, this particular title didn’t resonate as strongly with audiences or reviewers. Overall, Katie Finneran continues to demonstrate range and versatility across her body of work.