Allison Janney

Allison Janney is an accomplished actress recognized for her versatility across film, television, and stage. Raised in Dayton, Ohio, Janney initially aspired to a career in figure skating before an accident shifted her focus to acting. She studied at Kenyon College under the mentorship of Paul Newman, who encouraged her to pursue acting. She later refined her craft at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City.

Janney's breakthrough role came in the late 1990s when she was cast as C.J. Cregg in the NBC political drama series "The West Wing." Her portrayal of C.J. Cregg garnered her four Primetime Emmy Awards and a Satellite Award. Her performance in this series showcased her ability to balance humor, intellect, and emotional depth.

In film, Janney has delivered memorable performances in a variety of projects. She won an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, a BAFTA, and a Screen Actors Guild Award for her role as LaVona Golden in "I, Tonya." In 2019, Janney executive produced and starred in the film "Breaking News in Yuba County" as Sue Buttons, showcasing her ability to not only act but also contribute to the creative process behind the scenes. Her other film credits include standout roles in "American Beauty," "The Hours," "Juno," and "Bombshell," and she notably received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to the entertainment industry.

Janney's impactful work extends to the stage as well. She has been nominated for two Tony Awards for her performances in Broadway productions and won two Drama Desk Awards. Her Broadway debut in "Present Laughter" won her the Theatre World Award, Clarence Derwent Award for Most Promising Female, and Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Featured Actress in a Play. She also won the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Featured Actress in a Play and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Actress in a Play for her role in "A View from the Bridge."

Janney has also been recognized for her work in comedy. She portrayed Bonnie Plunkett on the CBS sitcom "Mom," a role for which she received two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Furthermore, Janney has continued to impress audiences with her recent roles in the Netflix drama series "The Diplomat," for which she earned a Golden Globe nomination, and the Apple TV+ period comedy series "Palm Royale."

Outside of acting, Janney is known for her advocacy work. She has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and addiction recovery, utilizing her personal experiences to bring awareness to these causes. She was honored at the White House in 2016 at the Champions of Change event for advancing addiction prevention, treatment, and recovery. Additionally, Janney has shown significant philanthropic contributions, including substantial donations to Planned Parenthood and the Dayton Foodbank during the COVID-19 pandemic.