Gena Rowlands American actress. Date of Birth: 19.06.1930 Country: USA

1. Biography of Gena Rowlands
2. Theater Career
3. Film Debut
4. Collaboration with John Cassavetes
5. Family and Legacy
6. Awards and Accolades

Biography of Gena Rowlands

Gena Rowlands is an American actress who made her debut on stage at the Provincetown Playhouse in New York, where she initially worked as a wardrobe assistant. She studied at college and then at the University of Wisconsin, where she received her acting education at the Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York.

Theater Career

During the late 1950s, Rowlands primarily performed in theater, particularly on Broadway. She honed her acting skills and gained recognition for her performances on stage.

Film Debut

Rowlands made her film debut in 1958 with a contract role with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer in the film "The High Cost of Loving," directed by Jose Ferrer.

Collaboration with John Cassavetes

Rowlands was married to actor and director John Cassavetes, who cast her in many of his films, including "Gloria" in 1980. Their son, Nick Cassavetes, also directed Rowlands in several movies, such as "Unhook the Stars," based on his father's screenplay.

Family and Legacy

Rowlands has four children. Her daughter, Alexandra Cassavetes, followed in her footsteps and became an actress, while her other daughter, Zoe Cassavetes, pursued a career as a director. Director Pedro Almodovar dedicated his film "All About My Mother" to Rowlands, along with Bette Davis and Romy Schneider.

Awards and Accolades

Rowlands has received numerous awards throughout her career, including:
- Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Drama for "A Woman Under the Influence" in 1975.
- Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Miniseries for "The Betty Ford Story" in 1988.
- Emmy for Outstanding Performer in a Children's/Youth/Family Special for "The Incredible Mrs. Ritchie" in 1988.
- Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Movie for "The Betty Ford Story" in 1988.
- Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Movie for "Face of a Stranger" in 1992.
- Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or Movie for "Hysterical Blindness" in 2003.
- Silver Bear for Best Actress for "Opening Night" in 1978.