Catherine Ann Keener, a talented American actress, has made a name for herself in both independent and mainstream films. Born in Miami, Florida, and raised in Hialeah, Florida, Keener is the daughter of Evelyn (Jamiel) and James Keener, who owned an auto shop.
Catherine's Lebanese mother and English, Scottish, and German father heritage has undoubtedly influenced her quirky and unique acting style. She attended Wheaton College in Massachusetts, where she initially intended to take a photography class, but was unable to do so due to the class being full.
Instead, Keener began taking acting classes, which marked the beginning of her journey in the entertainment industry. After graduating, she managed a McDonald's in New York City before transitioning to an assistant casting director role and eventually relocating to Los Angeles.
Keener's aspirations for acting were met with encouragement from her superior, who helped her land a one-worded role as a waitress in the film About Last Night (1986). Two years later, she appeared in Survival Quest (1989),where she met her future husband, Dermot Mulroney.
After struggling to find her footing in the industry, Keener landed a role in the independent film Johnny Suede (1991),opposite the relatively unknown Brad Pitt. Her breakthrough in independent film came with roles in Living in Oblivion (1995) and Walking and Talking (1996).
Keener's mainstream success began with Being John Malkovich (1999),which earned her a first Oscar nomination. Since then, she has starred in several critically acclaimed films, solidifying her position as a talented and versatile actress.
