Marlee's Biography

Marlee Matlin is an acclaimed American actress, author, and activist, best known for being the only deaf performer to win an Academy Award. Born on August 24, 1965, in Morton Grove, Illinois, she lost most of her hearing at 18 months old due to illness, but her determination and talent propelled her to stardom. Matlin's breakthrough came with her film debut in 'Children of a Lesser God' (1986), earning her the Oscar for Best Actress at just 21. Over the years, she has become a prominent advocate for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, championing accessibility and inclusion in Hollywood and beyond. Matlin has appeared in numerous television series, including 'The West Wing,' 'Switched at Birth,' and 'The L Word,' earning several Emmy nominations. In addition to her acting career, she is a bestselling author and frequent public speaker. Matlin is married to Kevin Grandalski and has four children. Her impact extends beyond entertainment, inspiring millions with her resilience and advocacy. As of 2024, her estimated net worth is $12 million. She continues to be a trailblazer, proving that talent and perseverance can break barriers in any industry.