Ellen Barkin is an American actress and producer who has had a prolific career in Hollywood, known for her performances that embody both grit and glamour. Born in the Bronx, New York, on April 16, 1954, to a family of educators, Barkin grew up with a keen interest in the performing arts. She studied acting at the famed Actor's Studio in New York City alongside esteemed actors like Robert De Niro and Al Pacino. Her break into the industry came when she landed a role in the 1982 film Diner, directed by Barry Levinson. Barkin quickly established herself as an actor with remarkable versatility, shining in roles across various genres. She rose to prominence with her performance in the thriller Sea of Love opposite Al Pacino. Barkin's gripping portrayal of a femme fatale in this film garnered critical acclaim and cemented her position in the industry. Other notable films in her repertoire include Switch, The Big Easy, and Ocean's Thirteen, where she showcased her range from drama to comedy, and even crime capers. As her career progressed, Barkin ventured into production, co-founding Applehead Pictures in 2005. She produced and starred in the series Happyish and the film Another Happy Day, which further demonstrated her immense talent. Through her remarkable career, Barkin has received numerous accolades including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie.