The L Word Cast List
- L.A. FirefightersAlexandra Hedison (born July 10, 1969) is an American photographer, director, and actress.
- The L WordDaniela Sea (born 1977) is an American filmmaker, actress and musician. She rose to prominence through her role as Max Sweeney on Showtime's drama series The L Word.
- Covert Affairs, The L Word, So WeirdEric Lawrence Lively Brown (born July 31, 1981), better known as Eric Lively, is an American former actor. He played the role of Andy Evans in Speak.
- Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Mental, The Whole TruthAnnabella Sciorra, a talented actress of Italian descent, is renowned for her dynamic range and captivating performances. Born on March 29, 1960, in Brooklyn, New York, Sciorra's roots are deeply entrenched in the arts, with her journey beginning at the tender age of thirteen when she started to take acting lessons. The dedication to her craft led her to attain formal training at the esteemed American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York, putting her on a trajectory that would make her a recognizable face in Hollywood. Throughout her career, Sciorra has showcased versatility across mediums, starting from her breakthrough role in the 1991 film Jungle Fever, directed by the acclaimed Spike Lee. This was followed by a standout performance in The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, which cemented her position in Hollywood. Her aptitude for portraying complex characters did not go unnoticed, leading to a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for her performance in the illustrious HBO series The Sopranos. Despite facing personal challenges and controversies, Sciorra's resilience and commitment to her craft have been unwavering. She has continued to contribute to both film and television, including roles in the popular Netflix series, Daredevil and Luke Cage. An advocate for mental health and women's rights, Sciorra's life off-screen has been as impactful as her career on-screen, further emphasizing her significance in the industry. A stalwart of the performing arts, Annabella Sciorra's story serves as a testament to perseverance, talent, and the power of storytelling.
- Ugly Betty, The L Word, EyesEric Harry Timothy Mabius (born April 22, 1971) is an American actor. Born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, he graduated from Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, New York, with a degree in cinema studies. After working in theater productions, Mabius made his film debut in the 1995 independent dark comedy Welcome to the Dollhouse. Mabius gained widespread recognition for his role as Daniel Meade on the ABC comedy-drama series Ugly Betty. He also appeared on the Showtime series The L Word and in the films Cruel Intentions, The Crow: Salvation, and Resident Evil.
- The L Word, Julie Reno, Bounty HunterErin Daniels (born October 9, 1973) is an American actress. She is best known for her role as Dana Fairbanks on The L Word (2004–2007). Her feature film work includes A Single Man and One Hour Photo.
- Lie to Me, The L Word, The Chicago CodeJennifer Beals, an American actress and former teen model, is known for her versatile performances across film and television. Born on December 19, 1963, in Chicago, Illinois, Beals embarked on her acting journey while still a student at Yale University. Her breakout role came in the form of Alexandra "Alex" Owens in the 1983 romantic drama film "Flashdance", which catapulted her to international fame and earned her a nomination for a Golden Globe Award. Beals' career extends beyond the realm of film, with an impressive array of television roles to her credit. She starred in the critically acclaimed Showtime series The L Word, playing the role of Bette Porter, a part that not only showcased her acting prowess but also her dedication to portraying complex characters. Her portrayal of Bette brought her nominations for two NAACP Image Awards and a Satellite Award. In addition to this, she has made significant contributions to other popular television series such as Lie to Me, The Chicago Code, and Proof. Despite her successes on screen, Beals' accomplishments extend into her personal life and humanitarian efforts. An avid supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, she has used her platform to advocate for equality and acceptance. Moreover, she has displayed a deep commitment to education, graduating from Yale University with a degree in American Literature in 1987. Jennifer Beals' career is marked by her dedication to her craft, her commitment to social issues, and her ability to portray a wide range of characters, making her a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
- Make It Or Break It, Pasadena, Snow QueenChelsea Hobbs (born February 18, 1985) is a Canadian actress. She is known for roles such as Gerda in the 2002 television film Snow Queen, and as Emily Kmetko the ABC Family teen drama Make It or Break It.
Karina Lombard
The 4400, The L WordKarina Lombard (born January 21, 1969) is a French-American actress and singer. She has appeared in projects such as the Showtime series The L Word, The 4400, Rescue Me, and Legends of the Fall.- Ray Donovan, The L Word, Young AmericansKatherine Sian Moennig (born December 29, 1977) is an American actress known for her role as Shane McCutcheon on The L Word (2004-09), as well as Jake Pratt on Young Americans (2000). Moennig has played the role of Lena in the Showtime series Ray Donovan since 2013.
- How I Met Your Mother, Tru Calling, How to Make It in AmericaCobie Smulders, a renowned Canadian actress and model, was born on April 3, 1982, in Vancouver, British Columbia. She gained international acclaim for her role as Robin Scherbatsky on the hit television series How I Met Your Mother, which aired from 2005 to 2014. Her character's charm and wit not only won over audiences, but also solidified Smulders's place in Hollywood. As a testament to her talent, she received nominations for several awards, including the People's Choice Award for Favorite TV Gal Pals which she shared with co-star Alyson Hannigan. In addition to her successful television career, Smulders is also recognized for her work in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She made her debut as Agent Maria Hill in The Avengers in 2012, a role she reprised in multiple subsequent Marvel films. Her portrayal of the no-nonsense S.H.I.E.L.D. agent further demonstrated her versatility as an actress, showing that she could handle action-packed sequences just as well as comedic scenes. Smulders's career extends beyond acting. She has utilized her platform for activism and philanthropy, particularly in relation to cancer awareness. This is a cause close to her heart, as she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at the age of 25. After several surgeries over two years, she announced that she was in remission. Her courage and resilience in the face of adversity have inspired many, making her not just an accomplished actress, but also a role model for others facing similar challenges.
- The L WordLaurel Lisa Holloman (born May 23, 1971) is an American painter and actress. She is best known for playing Tina Kennard in The L Word.
- CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, The L Word, Mutant XLauren Lee Smith (born June 19, 1980) is a Canadian actress. She is known for her television roles, including Emma DeLauro in the syndicated fantasy drama Mutant X, Riley Adams in the CBS forensics drama CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, police Sergeant Michelle McCluskey in the CTV fantasy drama The Listener, and Frankie Drake in the CBC detective series Frankie Drake Mysteries.
- Moonlighting, Cybill, The Client ListCybill Shepherd is a renowned figure in Hollywood. Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Shepherd's journey to stardom began as a model, earning her nationwide recognition after gracing the cover of Glamour magazine in 1968. This exposure paved the way for her acting career, which launched when director Peter Bogdanovich cast her in the critically acclaimed film The Last Picture Show in 1971. Shepherd's acting prowess extends beyond the big screen, as she has also made significant contributions to television. Her breakthrough role came in the form of Maddie Hayes on the hit detective series Moonlighting. The show, which aired from 1985 to 1989, garnered Shepherd two Golden Globe Awards. In addition, the CBS sitcom Cybill, which ran from 1995 to 1998 and was loosely based on her own life, earned her another Golden Globe Award. Despite her successful acting career, Shepherd did not limit herself to one medium. She released multiple albums, demonstrating her musical talents and love for jazz. Her debut album, Cybill Does It...To Cole Porter came out in 1974, marking the beginning of her singing career. Shepherd is also known for her activism, particularly in advocating for issues related to women's rights and LGBTQ+ rights.
Leisha Hailey
The L WordLeisha Hailey (born July 11, 1971) is a Japanese-born American actress and musician known for playing Alice Pieszecki in the Showtime Networks series The L Word. Hailey first came to the public's attention as a musician in the pop duo The Murmurs and has continued her music career as part of the band Uh Huh Her.- RubiconDallas Mark Roberts (born May 10, 1970) is an American actor. He is best known for his role as Milton Mamet in the third season of AMC's The Walking Dead (2012-2013), Eliot Delson on Unforgettable, and Owen Cavanaugh on The Good Wife. He currently stars in the Netflix comedy Insatiable.
- The X-Files, Battlestar Galactica, Veronica MarsLucy Lawless, a New Zealand-born actress and singer, has garnered international acclaim through her diverse repertoire of roles across stage, television, and film. She was born Lucille Frances Ryan on the 29th of March, 1968, in Mount Albert, Auckland. Her path to stardom began with a string of appearances in New Zealand advertisements before landing a breakthrough role in the globally popular TV series Xena: Warrior Princess. This role not only catapulted her to international fame but also established her as a feminist icon. Lawless's characterization of Xena, the fierce and independent warrior, was pivotal in redefining the representation of women in action roles during the late 90s. In addition to Xena: Warrior Princess, she showcased her versatility by performing in other notable television series such as Spartacus, Parks and Recreation, and Ash vs Evil Dead. Simultaneously, she made significant strides in the film industry, featuring in movies like Spider-Man and Bedtime Stories. Beyond acting, Lawless is also recognized for her powerful mezzo-soprano voice, which she demonstrated in several episodes of Xena and in her own music albums. Beyond her entertainment career, Lawless holds a steadfast commitment to environmental and social causes. She has been involved with charitable organizations like Greenpeace and Starship Children's Health, using her celebrity status to raise awareness and funds for their initiatives. Lawless's enduring influence on screen and her dedication to social activism firmly establish her legacy as an artist who breaks boundaries and as a humanitarian who makes a difference.
- Switched at Birth, The L Word, Picket FencesMarlee Beth Matlin (born August 24, 1965) is an American actress, author, and activist. She won the Academy Award for Best Actress for Children of a Lesser God (1986) and to date is the only deaf performer to have won an Academy Award also having won the award at the age of 21, she is the youngest winner in the category. Her work in film and television has resulted in a Golden Globe award, with two additional nominations, and four Emmy nominations. Deaf since she was 18 months old, due to illness and high fevers, she is also a prominent member of the National Association of the Deaf. Her longtime interpreter is Jack Jason.
- Defiance, The L Word, Wolf LakeMia Kirshner (born January 25, 1975 or 1976) is a Canadian actress, writer and social activist who works in movies and television series. She is known for her role as Jenny Schecter on the cable TV series The L Word (2004–2009), and for her recurring guest role as the terrorist Mandy on the TV series 24 (2001–2005).
- Desperate Housewives, Superman: The Animated Series, Justice LeagueDana Delany, celebrated as one of Hollywood's most versatile actresses, carved a distinctive niche for herself with her prolific acting skills. Born on March 13, 1956, in New York City, she grew up in Stamford, Connecticut as the daughter of Mary and Jack Delany, both of whom worked in the television industry. This early exposure to the world of entertainment undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping her future career aspirations. Delany graduated from Wesleyan University, majoring in theater, which laid the foundation for her professional journey. Delany's acting career took flight in the late 1970s, but it was in 1988 when she achieved substantial recognition. She landed a role in the critically acclaimed television drama China Beach, where she portrayed Army Nurse Colleen McMurphy. Her performance won her two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, solidifying her position as a powerful performer. Following this success, Delany expanded her repertoire, showcasing her versatility through roles in various genres, including comedy, drama, and action, in both film and television. Beyond acting, Delany has demonstrated a profound commitment to social issues. She is known for her active participation in causes such as women's health and LGBTQ+ rights. Her advocacy work extends to the realm of arts and culture, where she supports organizations dedicated to promoting theater and film. Despite her celebrity status, Delany consistently uses her platform to champion these causes, further contributing to her multifaceted persona. With a career that spans over four decades, Dana Delany remains a compelling figure in the entertainment industry.
- Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, The L Word, Roots: The Next GenerationsPam Grier, an iconic figure in the entertainment industry, is best recognized for her groundbreaking roles in action-packed films during the 1970s blaxploitation era. Born on May 26, 1949, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Grier rose from humble beginnings to leave an indelible mark on Hollywood. Her initial breakthrough came when she starred in a string of low-budget films, including The Big Bird Cage, Coffy, and Foxy Brown, where she established herself as a tough, assertive heroine, disrupting the stereotypical portrayal of African American women in cinema. Grier's work in film was not solely confined to the blaxploitation genre. In the latter part of her career, she demonstrated her versatility by taking roles in a variety of other genres. She was featured in the critically acclaimed crime thriller Jackie Brown, directed by Quentin Tarantino, which earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress. This role further cemented Grier's status as a significant figure in the film industry. Besides her cinematic ventures, Grier made a successful transition to television, starring in popular series like The L Word and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Beyond acting, Grier serves as an inspiration for her resilience in personal life. She successfully battled cancer, a journey that she candidly shared in her memoir My Life in Three Acts. Her fight against the disease has turned her into an advocate for cancer awareness and health issues. Her body of work continues to inspire aspiring actors and filmmakers alike, underlining her status as a true trailblazer in the entertainment industry.
- Once Upon a Time, The L WordRachel Shelley (born 25 August 1969) is an English actress and model. She is best known for playing Helena Peabody in the Showtime series The L Word and Elizabeth Russell in the Oscar-nominated Bollywood epic Lagaan.
- Person of Interest, Life, The L WordSarah Shahi, born Aahoo Jahansouz Shahi, is a renowned actress and former NFL cheerleader with an intriguingly diverse background. Born on January 10, 1980, in Euless, Texas, Sarah is of Iranian and Spanish descent. This multi-talented personality has established herself as a formidable presence in Hollywood through her versatile roles in television and film. Shahi's journey into the limelight started as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, a position she held from 1999-2000. However, her passion for acting led her away from the football field and onto the stage. Shahi made her acting debut in 2000 with a guest role in the popular television series, City Guys. Over time, she has depicted a wide range of characters, earning critical acclaim for her performances in popular TV shows like The L Word, Life and Person of Interest. Notwithstanding her successful television career, Shahi didn't relegate herself to one medium. She made several appearances in films, including Old School and Bullet to the Head. Her performance in these movies further demonstrates her ability to inhabit diverse roles seamlessly. Moreover, Shahi has also played integral parts in several independent films, proving her dedication to the craft even outside mainstream cinema. Throughout her career, Shahi has consistently demonstrated the depth of her talent and continues to captivate audiences with her performances.
- Saved by the Bell, Life Goes On, Brother's KeeperElizabeth Berkley, born on July 28, 1972, in Farmington Hills, Michigan, is an accomplished American actress and reality show personality. She first gained attention as a teenager in the late 1980s, attending Detroit Dance Company and developing a strong passion for ballet. Her dedication to performing arts led her to pursue acting, landing her breakthrough role as Jessie Spano on the popular television sitcom Saved by the Bell. Berkley's transition from teen star to adult actress was marked by her controversial role in Paul Verhoeven's 1995 film Showgirls. The movie, which initially faced negative reviews and box office failure, later achieved cult status and demonstrated Berkley's willingness to take on challenging roles. Despite the early turbulence, she continued to build her career with various roles in films such as The First Wives Club and Any Given Sunday, and television series like CSI: Miami and The L Word. In addition to her acting career, Berkley has made significant contributions to society through her philanthropic work. In 2006, she founded Ask-Elizabeth, a self-help program designed to empower teenage girls. Using her platform to encourage self-esteem and body positivity, Berkley has become a respected figure not only in the entertainment industry but also in the realm of youth mentorship and empowerment.
- Eureka, Cold Squad, Hide and SeekErica Cerra (born October 31, 1979) is a Canadian actress, best known for her portrayal of Deputy Jo Lupo on the Syfy series Eureka, and artificial intelligence A.L.I.E. and her creator Becca on The 100.
Heather Matarazzo
Life on Mars, Now and Again, Exes and OhsHeather Christina Marie Matarazzo (born November 10, 1982) is an American actress. Her breakthrough role was Dawn Wiener, a dorky girl in the film Welcome to the Dollhouse (1995). She played Lilly in The Princess Diaries (2001) and The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004). Her other movies include The Devil's Advocate (1997), Scream 3 (2000), Sorority Boys (2002), Saved! (2004), and Hostel: Part 2 (2007).Holland Taylor
Two and a Half Men, The Practice, Bosom BuddiesHolland Virginia Taylor (born January 14, 1943) is an American actress and playwright. She won the 1999 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her role as Judge Roberta Kittleson on the ABC drama The Practice (1998–2003). She is also known for her role as Evelyn Harper on the CBS sitcom Two and a Half Men (2003–2015). Taylor's other notable television roles include the sitcoms Bosom Buddies (1980–1982) and The Powers That Be (1992–1993). Her film appearances include One Fine Day (1996), George of the Jungle (1997), The Truman Show (1998), and Legally Blonde (2001). She also wrote and starred in the solo play Ann, based on the life and work of Ann Richards, for which she was nominated for the 2013 Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play.- Glee, Two and a Half Men, Married... with ChildrenJane Lynch, an acclaimed actress, comedian, and author, is known for her diverse roles in both television and film. Born on July 14, 1960, in Evergreen Park, Illinois, she developed an affinity for acting at a young age. Lynch's journey to stardom was not straightforward; after graduating from Illinois State University and later earning a Master's degree in Theater from Cornell University, she spent many years honing her craft in various theater productions and comedy troupes. Lynch has etched her name in the annals of entertainment history through her portrayal of Sue Sylvester in Fox's musical comedy series Glee. This role brought her widespread recognition and earned her numerous accolades, including an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe Award. Her other notable television appearances include roles in series like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Criminal Minds. Lynch's talent isn't confined within the small screen, as her filmography boasts of critically acclaimed movies such as Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, and The 40-Year-Old Virgin. Apart from her acting pursuits, Lynch has made significant contributions as an author. She has penned down her memoir Happy Accidents, which delves into her personal life and struggles with alcoholism and sexuality, providing an introspective look at her journey. She is also recognized for her humanitarian efforts, especially for LGBTQ+ rights. A boisterous personality, Jane Lynch's impact extends beyond the realm of entertainment, making her a pivotal figure in contemporary culture.
- True Blood, The League, The GatesJanina Zione Gavankar (; born November 29, 1980) is an American actress and musician. Gavankar is also trained as a pianist, vocalist, and orchestral percussionist. She majored in Theatre Performance at the University of Illinois at Chicago.Gavankar's roles include Papi, a lesbian lothario in The L Word; Leigh Turner, a police officer on The Gates; Ms. Dewey, the personification of a Microsoft branded search engine who commented on the user's searches; Shiva, the namesake of the sought-after trophy on The League; shapeshifter Luna Garza on HBO's True Blood; McKenna Hall on The CW's Arrow; and Meredith Bose on NBC's The Mysteries of Laura. She also played Diana Thomas on FOX's supernatural drama Sleepy Hollow.
- Buzz Lightyear of Star Command, Live from Lincoln Center, Journey to Planet EarthKelly Ann McGillis (born July 9, 1957) is an American actress widely known for her film role as Rachel Lapp in Witness (1985) with Harrison Ford, for which she received Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations; her role as Charlie in Top Gun (1986) with Tom Cruise, and her role as Kathryn Murphy in The Accused (1988) with Jodie Foster.
