10 fun and interesting Catherine Keener facts

1. College Student from a Less Privileged Background

Catherine Keener attended Wheaton College in Massachusetts, living with an aunt in order to save on boarding and lodging costs. Despite this, she often felt out-of-place amongst her peers, many of whom were from more privileged backgrounds. This sense of displacement was something she carried with her throughout her college experience, and likely had an impact on her later career choices.

Also → Catherine Deneuve: A Career in Acting

2. From History Major to Acting Superstar

Catherine Keener had a passion for the arts, but when she enrolled in college, she decided to major in history and English. Unfortunately, she was unable to get into the photography class she wanted, so she decided to take a theater course instead. Little did she know that this decision would lead to a successful career in acting, and she would go on to become one of the most acclaimed actresses of her generation.

Also → Emily Mortimer: The Glass Virgin

3. A successful actress since her debut

Catherine Keener made her theatrical debut in the production of "Uncommon Women and Others" while she was a junior at Wheaton College. This was her first foray into the world of theatre, and it proved to be a successful one, as she went on to have a long and successful career in the entertainment industry. She has since starred in numerous films, television shows, and theatre productions, and has earned numerous awards and accolades for her work.

Also → Tom Berenger: A Hollywood Star Since 1976

4. Catherine Keener's First Acting Role Was a One-Line Part

Catherine Keener's first foray into the world of acting was a one-line part as a waitress in the 1986 film “About Last Night”. This opportunity was made possible by Gail Eisenstadt, the casting director who Keener had been working as an assistant to. This was the start of Keener's career, and the first time she ever appeared on screen.

Also → Virginia Madsen's Career Soars After 1986 Film

5. O'Hara's Lieutenant

Catherine Keener had a supporting role in the television series "O'Hara" from January 1987 to May 1988. She played the character of Lieutenant Cricket Sideris, a detective in an Asian precinct. The show focused on the life of the titular character, Detective O'Hara, and the cases he solved. Keener's character was a key part of the show, providing support and guidance to O'Hara as he navigated the criminal underworld.

Also → Winona Ryder's Career Takes Off

6. Catherine Keener's Career Takes Off

Catherine Keener's career took off in 1991 when she starred in the comedy "Johnny Suede" alongside a then-unknown Brad Pitt. This was Pitt's first major role, and it proved to be a major breakthrough for both actors, launching them into the spotlight and setting them on the path to stardom. Keener's performance in the film earned her critical acclaim and helped to establish her as a respected actress in the industry.

Also → Liza Minnelli: Early career in film and television

7. From "Seinfeld" to Hollywood success

In 1992, Catherine Keener made her debut on the iconic sitcom "Seinfeld" as Jerry's girlfriend, an artist. She appeared in the episode "The Letter", where her character's artwork was featured in the show. Keener's performance was praised by critics and fans alike, and it marked the beginning of her successful career in Hollywood.

Also → Matt Dillon: Early Career Highlights

8. Acclaimed Indie Actress

Catherine Keener was a highly acclaimed actress on the independent film scene, and in 1999 she was rewarded for her talent with an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the movie "Being John Malkovich". Despite the recognition, Keener was not a fan of the media attention that came with the nomination, and she was known to avoid interviews and press events.

Also → Patrick Stewart Visits Theatre as Professor

9. Intensely Talented Actress

Catherine Keener starred as Jan Burres in the 2007 film adaptation of Jon Krakauer's best-selling novel, "Into the Wild". Her performance as the sympathetic yet determined character earned her critical acclaim and further cemented her reputation as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.

Also → Clive Owen: A Career in Acting

10. Catherine Keener Delays Two Films, Fans Disappointed

Catherine Keener is an acclaimed actress who has starred in a number of films, including two that were originally slated for a late 2008 release but were pushed back to 2009: "The Soloist" and "Where the Wild Things Are". Both films were highly anticipated, and the delay was met with disappointment from fans. However, the wait was worth it, as both films were met with critical acclaim and box office success.