Ellen Burstyn, born Edna Rae Gillooly in 1932, is a highly esteemed American actress of stage and screen. With a career spanning over six decades, her performances have earned her recognition as one of the premier actresses in the world of cinema. Burstyn rose from humble beginnings in Detroit, Michigan to become an influential figure in the film industry, demonstrating a remarkable range and depth of character across a variety of genres. Burstyn's ascent to prominence began with her breakout role in The Last Picture Show (1971), which garnered her first Academy Award nomination. However, it was her stunning portrayal of a widowed mother in Martin Scorsese's Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore (1974) that truly cemented her status as a leading lady in Hollywood. The role earned Burstyn an Academy Award for Best Actress, etching her name into the annals of cinematic history. Her other notable works include The Exorcist (1973) and Requiem for a Dream (2000), both of which earned her further Academy Award nominations. Aside from her illustrious cinematic career, Burstyn also holds an impressive list of accolades in theatre and television. She won a Tony Award for her role in Same Time, Next Year on Broadway and an Emmy for her role in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Burstyn's dedication to her craft extends beyond acting; she served as the first woman president of Actor's Equity Association in the early 1980s. Through her immense talent and steadfast determination, Ellen Burstyn has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, inspiring generations of performers to follow in her footsteps.