Molly Parker has always stood out in the world of acting, thanks to her chameleon-like ability to transform into any character she portrays. Over the years, Molly Parker has built an impressive resume across a diverse array of screen projects, showcasing her range and depth as an actress. Born and raised in British Columbia, Canada, Molly Parker initially trained in dance during her childhood, but it was during her teenage years that she discovered a passion for acting—a decision that would shape her future.
With the support of her uncle’s agent, Molly Parker made her early appearances in television movies, including the 1991 CBS film “My Son Johnny.” From there, Molly Parker steadily worked through the 1990s, taking on mostly minor roles on TV. But everything changed in 1996 when she landed the lead in the provocative indie film “Kissed,” where she portrayed a young woman grappling with complex and unsettling emotions tied to necrophilia. The performance was bold, fearless, and instantly put Molly Parker on the map as a serious talent.
Following that breakthrough, Molly Parker joined the cast of the offbeat Canadian sitcom “Twitch City” (CBC, 1998–2000), further demonstrating her versatility. Yet it was her role as Alma Garret on HBO’s critically acclaimed Western series “Deadwood” (2004–2006) that truly cemented her status in American television. Her nuanced portrayal brought emotional gravity to the show, earning both praise and a loyal fan following. Though the series ended prematurely in 2006, disappointing many—including Molly Parker herself—she didn’t stay off-screen for long.
She soon stepped into another compelling period drama, “Swingtown” (CBS, 2008), where Molly Parker played a central role in the short-lived but well-received series. As her career progressed, Molly Parker continued to choose challenging roles, appearing in recurring arcs on Showtime’s “Dexter” (2006–2013). Later, she earned widespread recognition for her performance as Congresswoman Jacqueline Sharp on the Netflix political thriller “House of Cards” (2013–2018), sharing screen time with Kevin Spacey and later Robin Wright.
Not one to shy away from genre work, Molly Parker also co-starred in the Netflix sci-fi reboot “Lost in Space” (2018–), bringing strength and subtlety to her character. And in a move that delighted longtime fans, Molly Parker returned to one of her most iconic roles—Alma Garret—in the 2019 film “Deadwood: The Movie,” delivering a powerful and poignant performance that brought closure to the beloved series.
Throughout her journey, Molly Parker has remained a quietly commanding presence on screen—consistently choosing complex characters and leaving a lasting impression. With each new project, Molly Parker proves once again why she’s one of the most respected actresses of her generation.
When it comes to Molly Parker’s career highlights, one standout moment definitely comes from her work in Deadwood: The Movie (2019), which is widely regarded as her highest-rated film to date. Fans and critics alike have praised her performance in this 2019 release, cementing it as a major success in her filmography. On the other hand, Molly Parker was also part of The Wicker Man (2006), a movie that received notably poor reviews and ended up being her lowest-rated project so far. While Molly Parker has consistently delivered strong performances throughout her career, these two titles represent the upper and lower ends of her critical reception. It’s interesting to see how roles like the one in Deadwood: The Movie truly showcase what Molly Parker brings to the screen, whereas something like The Wicker Man didn’t quite hit the same mark. Still, Molly Parker continues to be a respected figure in the industry, with her body of work reflecting both highs and lows—just like any enduring acting career.