Mary McDonnell

Biography

Mary Eileen McDonnell, born on April 28, 1952, is a versatile American actress celebrated for her impactful performances across film, television, and stage. McDonnell garnered significant acclaim for her roles in major films, earning Academy Award nominations for her portrayals of Stands With A Fist in the critically acclaimed Dances With Wolves and May-Alice Culhane in Passion Fish.

Her television career is marked by iconic roles, most notably as President Laura Roslin in the acclaimed sci-fi series Battlestar Galactica. Additionally, she captivated audiences as First Lady Marilyn Whitmore in the blockbuster Independence Day and brought depth to her character Rose in the cult classic Donnie Darko.

McDonnell's talent was further showcased in her role as Captain Sharon Raydor in the TNT series The Closer, a character she continued to develop in the spin-off Major Crimes, earning her recognition as a strong lead in both series.

In 2023, she made a striking return to the screen, portraying Madeleine Usher in Netflix's miniseries The Fall of the House of Usher, adding to her already impressive body of work. With a career spanning decades, Mary McDonnell remains a respected figure in the entertainment industry, known for her powerful performances and diverse roles.