| Name: |
Sigourney Weaver
|
| Zodiac Sign | Libra |
| Date of Birth | October 8, 1949 |
| Age | 73 |
| Birth Place |
Manhattan, New York, United States
|
| Gender: | Female |
| Height: | 1.82m. (5′ 9″) |
| Weight: |
136 lbs / 62 kg
|
| Profession: |
American actress
|
| Nationality | American |
| Residence |
Santa Barbara, California
|
| Home Town |
New York City
|
| Hobbies | Reading Travelling |
| Salary: | $5 million + |
| Monthly Income: | $5,00,000 + |
Susan Alexandra “Sigourney” Weaver, an accomplished American actress born on October 8, 1949, has made an indelible mark in science fiction and popular culture. With a string of accolades, including a British Academy Film Award, two Golden Globe Awards, and a Grammy Award, as well as multiple Academy Award, Primetime Emmy Award, and Tony Award nominations, Weaver’s talent is widely recognized and celebrated.
Weaver gained fame as Ellen Ripley in the iconic science fiction film Alien (1979), a role she reprised in its sequels, Aliens (1986), Alien 3 (1992), and Alien Resurrection (1997). Her portrayal of Ripley has cemented her as a pioneering female protagonist in the history of cinema.
Beyond the Alien franchise, Weaver showcased her versatility in other notable films, including Avatar (2009) and Avatar: The Way of Water (2022), both high-grossing blockbusters. She also received critical acclaim for her roles in Gorillas in the Mist (1988), Working Girl (1988), and The Ice Storm (1997), among others.
Weaver’s talent extended to Broadway, where she received a Tony Award nomination for her role in the play Hurlyburly (1984). Additionally, she lent her voice to animated films such as WALL-E (2008) and Finding Dory (2016) and narrated documentaries like Planet Earth (2006) and The Beatles: Eight Days a Week (2016).
Her captivating performances garnered her recognition in television as well, with Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Snow White: A Tale of Terror (1998), Prayers for Bobby (2009), and Political Animals (2013).
In addition to her acting prowess, Weaver won a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album for her narration of Earth (The Book) (2010), a witty and humorous book.
Throughout her illustrious career, Susan Alexandra Weaver has left an enduring legacy in the entertainment industry, solidifying her status as one of the most esteemed actresses of her time.
Educational Qualification of Sigourney Weaver
| Educational Qualification | School | College/University |
|---|---|---|
| High School | Ethel Walker School | N/A |
| The Chapin School | ||
| The Brearley School | ||
| Undergraduate | N/A | Sarah Lawrence College |
| Stanford University (B.A. in English) | ||
| Graduate | N/A | Yale University School of Drama |
Family And Relatives of Sigourney Weaver
| Mother’s Name | Elizabeth Inglis | |
| Father’s Name | Sylvester Weaver | |
| Brother | Trajan Weaver | |
| Sister | None |
Sigourney Weaver Marriage Date, Husband and Children
| Marriage Date | 1 October 1984 | |
| Husband/Spouse | Jim Simpson (1984 – present) | |
| Children | Charlotte Simpson |
Early life and education
Susan Alexandra Weaver, known as Sigourney Weaver, was born on October 8, 1949, in New York City. Her mother, Elizabeth Inglis, was an English actress, and her father, Sylvester “Pat” Weaver Jr., was a prominent American television executive. Weaver took the name Sigourney from a character in The Great Gatsby when she was 14.
Her interest in performance arts developed during her time at Ethel Walker School, where she participated in school productions. Weaver’s height, reaching 5 ft 10+1⁄2 in at a young age, affected her self-esteem, but she found solace in theater. She attended Sarah Lawrence College and then transferred to Stanford University as an English major, actively engaging in theater groups and performances.
Weaver’s passion for acting led her to pursue a Master of Fine Arts degree at Yale University’s School of Drama. Although she faced challenges and criticism, she emerged stronger, graduating in 1974. This marked the beginning of her successful acting career, where she became a trailblazing figure in science fiction and popular culture. With iconic roles like Ellen Ripley in Alien and performances in Gorillas in the Mist and Working Girl, Sigourney Weaver’s talent and contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be celebrated.
Personal life of Sigourney Weaver
Sigourney Weaver has been happily married to stage director Jim Simpson since October 1, 1984, and the couple resides in Manhattan. They share a child named Charlotte, who was born in 1990 and identifies as non-binary.
In addition to her thriving personal life, Weaver has formed strong bonds with her colleagues in the entertainment industry. She is close friends with Jamie Lee Curtis, with whom she starred in the romantic comedy You Again (2010). In a candid 2015 interview, Curtis admitted that she never watched Alien in its entirety due to fear, revealing the impact of Weaver’s iconic role.
Beyond her acting career, Weaver is deeply passionate about environmental causes. Following her role in Gorillas in the Mist, she became a devoted supporter of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and currently serves as its honorary chairperson. Her dedication to environmentalism was recognized by the Explorers Club, which honored her for her contributions. In October 2006, she raised international awareness about the threats posed to ocean habitats by deep-sea trawling during a United Nations General Assembly policy deliberation.
Weaver also uses her platform to advocate for social causes. In April 2008, she hosted the annual gala of the Trickle Up Program, a non-profit organization focused on helping those in extreme poverty, particularly women and disabled individuals.
In 2009, Weaver signed a petition supporting director Roman Polanski, who had been detained in relation to sexual abuse charges. The petition argued that his arrest could undermine the free and safe environment of film festivals and potentially lead to unforeseen consequences.
Throughout her career and personal life, Sigourney Weaver’s influence extends beyond the screen, as she actively contributes to causes that align with her values and beliefs.
Career of Sigourney Weaver
Sigourney Weaver’s journey as an actress encompasses a wide array of remarkable performances, starting at Yale in 1974 with the first production of Stephen Sondheim’s musical The Frogs. She shared the stage with Meryl Streep and Durang during this time. Weaver’s talent extended to off-Broadway productions, including Durang’s comedy Beyond Therapy in 1981. Before her on-screen breakthrough, she appeared in commercials, television roles, and had a small part in Woody Allen’s Annie Hall.
In 1979, Weaver landed the iconic role of Warrant Officer / Lieutenant Ripley in Ridley Scott’s blockbuster film Alien, earning widespread acclaim. She reprised the role in the successful sequel Aliens, winning accolades and nominations. Weaver’s versatility shone through as she took on diverse roles, such as British Embassy officer Jill Bryant in The Year of Living Dangerously (1982) and Dana Barrett in Ghostbusters.
Throughout the 1990s, she continued to impress with roles in films like Gorillas in the Mist and Working Girl, earning Golden Globe Awards and Academy Award nominations. In the 2000s, Weaver remained active in both film and television, including her role as Dr. Grace Augustine in James Cameron’s Avatar (2009), which became the highest-grossing film of all time.
Weaver’s career soared in the following years, with appearances in various films and television shows. She reprised her role as Ripley in the video game Alien: Isolation and starred in Ridley Scott’s Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014). Weaver also expressed her willingness to return for an Alien sequel under Neill Blomkamp’s direction.
In recent years, she continued to impress audiences with her performances, including the reprisal of Dana Barrett in Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021) and her role in Avatar: The Way of Water (2022), cementing her status as a legendary figure in the entertainment industry. Weaver’s remarkable acting skills, dedication, and contributions to film and television have solidified her place as one of Hollywood’s most celebrated and respected actresses.
Sigourney Weaver’s Awards and Nominations
Academy Awards (Oscars)
- 1987: Nominated for Best Actress for “Aliens.”
- 1989: Nominated for Best Actress for “Gorillas in the Mist” and Best Supporting Actress for “Working Girl.”
BAFTA Awards
- 1979: Nominated for Most Promising Newcomer for “Alien.”
- 1989: Nominated for Best Supporting Actress for “Working Girl” and won for “The Ice Storm.”
Critics’ Choice Awards
- 2012: Nominated for Best Actress in a Miniseries or TV Movie for “Political Animals.”
Golden Globe Awards
- 1986: Nominated for Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama for “Aliens.”
- 1988: Won for Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama for “Gorillas in the Mist” and Best Supporting Actress for “Working Girl.”
- 1997: Nominated for Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama for “The Ice Storm.”
- 1999: Nominated for Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama for “A Map of the World.”
- 2009: Nominated for Best Actress in a Miniseries or TV Movie for “Prayers for Bobby.”
- 2012: Nominated for Best Actress in a Miniseries or TV Movie for “Political Animals.”
Goya Awards
- 2016: Nominated for Best Supporting Actress for “A Monster Calls.”
Primetime Emmy Awards
- 1998: Nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Movie for “Snow White: A Tale of Terror.”
- 2009: Nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Movie for “Prayers for Bobby.”
- 2013: Nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Movie for “Political Animals.”
- 2021: Nominated for Outstanding Narrator for “Secrets of the Whales: Ocean Giants.”
Saturn Awards
- 1979: Nominated for Best Actress for “Alien.”
- 1986: Won for Best Actress for “Aliens.”
- 1993: Nominated for Best Actress for “Alien 3.”
- 1997: Nominated for Best Actress for “Alien Resurrection.”
- 1999: Nominated for Best Actress for “Galaxy Quest.”
- 2009: Won for Best Supporting Actress for “Avatar.”
Screen Actors Guild Awards (SAG Awards)
- 1997: Nominated for Outstanding Female Actor in a Miniseries or TV Movie for “Snow White: A Tale of Terror.”
- 2009: Nominated for Outstanding Female Actor in a Miniseries or TV Movie for “Prayers for Bobby.”
- 2012: Nominated for Outstanding Female Actor in a Miniseries or TV Movie for “Political Animals.”
Theatre – Tony Awards
- 1985: Nominated for Best Featured Actress in a Play for “Hurlyburly.”
Drama Desk Awards
- 1980: Nominated for Outstanding Actress in a Musical for “Das Lusitania Songspiel.”
Other Awards
- Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album for “Earth (The Book)” (2011).
- Special awards include Hasty Pudding Woman of the Year (1998), a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (1999), and the Chicago International Film Festival Lifetime Achievement Award (2001). She has also received honors for her international work.
Sigourney Weaver’s Net Worth
Sigourney Weaver, the accomplished actress, has amassed an impressive net worth over the years. As of 2023, her total net worth stands at a remarkable $65 million, with an annual income of around $5 million. Her successful career in the entertainment industry has been marked by iconic roles and substantial earnings from various films.
Below is a table showcasing some of her notable movie earnings:
| Movie | Earnings |
|---|---|
| Annie Hall | $50,000 |
| Madman | $2,000 |
| Alien | $30,000 |
| Aliens (sequel) | $1,000,000 |
Sigourney Weaver’s financial success has seen consistent growth over the years:
| Year | Net Worth |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $65 Million |
| 2022 | $60 Million |
| 2021 | $55 Million |
| 2020 | $50 Million |
| 2019 | $45 Million |
Apart from her thriving acting career, Weaver is also known for her philanthropic work and advocacy for environmental and social causes, making her an influential and well-rounded figure in Hollywood. Her talent, dedication, and impact on both the entertainment industry and society as a whole have solidified her position as one of Hollywood’s most respected and admired actresses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Sigourney Weaver
Who is Sigourney Weaver?
Sigourney Weaver, born Susan Alexandra Weaver on October 8, 1949, is an acclaimed American actress known for her versatile roles in various films, particularly in the science fiction genre. She gained international fame for her portrayal of Ellen Ripley in the Alien franchise.
Why did Sigourney Weaver change her name?
At the age of 13, Sigourney Weaver made the decision to change her name from Susan to Sigourney because she felt that her nickname, Suzy, was “too cute” for her. Standing at six feet tall, she wanted a name that better suited her personality and stature. By adopting the name Sigourney, she created a unique and more fitting identity for herself. This name change allowed her to stand out in the entertainment industry and helped her establish a successful acting career. Throughout the years, Sigourney Weaver has become a renowned and accomplished actress, known for her iconic roles in films such as the “Alien” series, cementing her place as a prominent figure in Hollywood.
What are Sigourney Weaver’s most famous movies?
Sigourney Weaver is best known for her iconic role as Ellen Ripley in the Alien series, starting with the original film Alien (1979) and its sequel Aliens (1986). She has also starred in other successful films like Ghostbusters (1984), Gorillas in the Mist (1988), and Avatar (2009).
How many awards has Sigourney Weaver won?
Throughout her career, Sigourney Weaver has received numerous accolades. She has won a British Academy Film Award, two Golden Globe Awards, and a Grammy Award. Additionally, she has been nominated for three Academy Awards, four Primetime Emmy Awards, and a Tony Award.
Is Sigourney Weaver involved in any philanthropic work?
Yes, Sigourney Weaver is actively involved in philanthropic endeavors. She is an honorary chairperson of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and supports environmental causes. Weaver has been recognized for her contributions to environmental activism and humanitarian efforts.
How much is Sigourney Weaver’s net worth?
As of 2023, Sigourney Weaver’s net worth is estimated to be around $65 million. Her successful acting career, coupled with endorsements and other ventures, has contributed to her substantial wealth.
What is Sigourney Weaver’s educational background?
Sigourney Weaver attended Ethel Walker School, The Chapin School, and The Brearley School during her high school years. She later pursued her Bachelor of Arts in English from Stanford University and earned a Master of Fine Arts from Yale University School of Drama.
Has Sigourney Weaver won any awards for her iconic role as Ellen Ripley?
Yes, Sigourney Weaver received widespread acclaim for her portrayal of Ellen Ripley in the Alien films. She won a Saturn Award for Best Actress for Aliens and earned nominations for the Academy Award for Best Actress and the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress for the same role.
What are some of Sigourney Weaver’s recent projects?
In recent years, Sigourney Weaver has continued to work on various projects. She appeared in films like Avatar: The Way of Water (2022) and Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021), reprising her role as Dana Barrett.
Is Sigourney Weaver involved in any upcoming films or TV shows?
As of now, specific details about Sigourney Weaver’s upcoming projects have not been announced. However, given her active career, fans can expect to see her in future film and television ventures.
Does Sigourney Weaver have any children?
Yes, Sigourney Weaver has one child named Charlotte, who was born in 1990. Charlotte identifies as non-binary.
