Was educated in Spain and Italy; speaks six languages.
Started acting with the St. Nicholas Theatre Company in Chicago, and worked with playwright David Mamet. She went on to appear in a number of his feature films.
Her Broadway appearances include The Iceman Cometh in 1985.
Founded the theater group the Grace Players.
Theater projects include A Holiday Potpourri, which was a benefit for the children of severely wounded American troops in Iraq.
Taught film students at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA.
Wrote the novel One Woman's War, published in 2012.
Volunteers her time organizing care packages and visiting U.S. troops overseas for the non-profit organization Trek to the Troops.