Olympia Dukakis was a renowned actress, director, and producer who spent over 60 years in the entertainment industry. Born on June 20, 1931, in Lowell, Massachusetts, to Greek immigrant parents, she majored in physical therapy at Boston University before switching to the graduate program in performing arts, earning a Master of Fine Arts degree.
Dukakis began her acting career on stage, performing in summer stock, repertory, and Shakespearean companies throughout the country. She made her Broadway debut as an understudy in "The Aspern Papers" at age 30 and went on to appear in numerous productions Off-Broadway and regionally.
In 1962, she married Yugoslav-American actor Louis Zorich, and they co-founded The Whole Theatre Company in Montclair, New Jersey, which they ran for 19 years. Dukakis was a master instructor at New York University for 14 years and taught at several other institutions.
She received critical acclaim for her performances in numerous films, including "Moonstruck" (1987),for which she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, as well as "Steel Magnolias" (1989),"Dad" (1989),"Look Who's Talking" (1989),and "The Cemetery Club" (1993).
Dukakis also had a successful television career, appearing in numerous series, mini-series, and guest starring roles, including "Tales of the City" (1993),"More Tales of the City" (1998),and "Further Tales of the City" (2001). She received Emmy nominations for her work in the latter two series.
Throughout her career, Dukakis was recognized with numerous awards and honors, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Greek America Foundation, and the National Arts Club Medal of Honor.
Dukakis was a strong advocate for women's rights, environmental causes, and liberal politics. She published her autobiography, "Ask Me Again Tomorrow: A Life in Progress," in 2003, which became a best-seller. She was also a popular lecturer, speaking on topics such as life in the theater, feminism, and health issues.
Dukakis passed away in May 2021 at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most talented and versatile actresses of her generation.
