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Mary Louise Wilson

Actress Film Television

Interests

TV

Characteristics

Resourceful Brave Passionate Determined A True Friend Magnetic

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Born
1931-11-12
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MiniBio

Mary Louise Wilson has long been a respected presence on the Broadway stage, captivating audiences for over five decades with her remarkable range and depth as a performer. Mary Louise Wilson brought nuance and power to challenging roles in both dramas and musicals, earning acclaim for her standout performances in productions like “Cabaret” and the critically acclaimed “Grey Gardens.” While her heart remained firmly rooted in theater, Mary Louise Wilson also cultivated a quietly impressive second career in film and television—appearing in memorable roles across a diverse array of projects. She charmed viewers in Woody Allen’s period comedy “Zelig” (1983), added gravitas to HBO’s landmark mob drama “The Sopranos” (1997–2007), and delivered poignant moments in the indie sleeper hit “Nebraska” (2013), among other notable appearances.

Her journey began in 1963 with a less-than-glamorous debut in the short-lived musical “Hot Spot,” but Mary Louise Wilson quickly rebounded, rising through the ranks to star in major theatrical works such as Bacharach and David’s “Promises, Promises” and the celebrated 1974 revival of “Gypsy.” Though her early screen roles in the ‘70s were small, Mary Louise Wilson steadily built a reputation as a reliable and compelling character actress. Over time, she took on supporting parts in high-profile films, including the Tom Hanks-led farce “The Money Pit” (1986) and the romantic dramedy “Green Card” (1990), proving her versatility beyond the footlights.

Recognition for Mary Louise Wilson’s enduring contributions to theater began mounting in the late ‘90s. Her tour de force performance in the one-woman show “Full Gallop” earned widespread praise in 1995, and she received a Tony Award nomination for her role in the 1998 revival of “Cabaret.” Then, after nearly a decade of continued excellence, Mary Louise Wilson finally captured the coveted Tony Award for her unforgettable turn in the musical “Grey Gardens”—a triumph that cemented her legacy. Today, Mary Louise Wilson stands as one of the American theater’s most talented and versatile figures, a true artist whose dedication and craft have left an indelible mark on stage and screen alike.

Trivia

When it comes to Mary Louise Wilson’s career highlights, her performance in Zelig (1983) stands out as her highest rated film—critics and audiences alike have praised her role in this classic. On the other hand, Mary Louise Wilson appeared in Everybody Wins (1990), which ended up being her lowest rated movie to date. While Mary Louise Wilson has had a diverse and impressive body of work over the years, these two films represent the peaks and valleys of her on-screen journey. Mary Louise Wilson truly shines in projects that showcase her range, and even in less successful films, her talent remains evident.

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Mabel King was, without a doubt, one of those unforgettable performers who brought joy to countless fans throughout her remarkable career. With a legacy rooted in laughter-inducing roles, Mabel King made a lasting mark on both film and television. Her rich movie career began with standout performances in comedies that showcased her incredible comedic timing and vibrant energy. Early on, Mabel King made her presence known in projects like *Don't Play Us Cheap* (1972), where she starred alongside Esther Rolle, delivering laughs and charm in equal measure. She continued building momentum with roles in films such as *The Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars and Motor Kings* (1976), sharing the screen with legends like Billy Dee Williams and James Earl Jones—talk about impressive company! While making waves in movies, Mabel King also found success on the small screen. During the mid-to-late '70s, she appeared in series television, including a memorable role on the popular ABC sitcom *What's Happening!* (1975–79). It was clear that Mabel King had a unique ability to connect with audiences, whether through song, humor, or heartfelt moments. As her career progressed, Mabel King took on more diverse and exciting roles. One of her most iconic appearances came in the 1978 musical *The Wiz*, where she performed alongside Diana Ross in a dazzling adaptation of *The Wizard of Oz*. Then came *The Jerk* (1979), a classic comedy starring Steve Martin, in which Mabel King added depth and humor to the ensemble cast. She kept the momentum going with a role in *The Gong Show Movie* (1980), further proving her versatility in offbeat comedies. She didn’t slow down there—Mabel King also appeared in *Getting Over* (1981) and later lent her talents to the TV movie *The Jerk, Too* (NBC, 1983–84), showing that her comedic spark hadn’t dimmed. Her final acting role came in the quirky Elliott Gould-led comedy *Dead Men Don't Die* (1991), wrapping up a career filled with memorable performances. Sadly, Mabel King passed away in November 1999 at the age of 67, leaving behind a legacy defined by laughter, talent, and an enduring presence on screen. Even today, when people think of powerhouse performers who could light up a scene with humor and heart, Mabel King is definitely among them.

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