Joan Cusack, a celebrated American actress, was born on October 11, 1962, in the bustling city of New York. Born into a family deeply rooted in the world of entertainment, she is the daughter of Nancy (née Carolan) and Dick Cusack, an advertising executive, writer, and actor. Her mother was a mathematics teacher, providing a balance of arts and intellect within their household. Joan is also part of a talented sibling group, with Susie Cusack, John Cusack, Ann Cusack, and Bill Cusack all carving out careers as actors. Her family’s heritage is proudly Irish.
Raised in Evanston, Illinois, Joan’s upbringing fostered her creative spirit. Her parents actively encouraged her artistic explorations, leading her to join the Piven Theater Workshop as a child. Further honing her skills, she engaged in improvisation at the Story Theater and The Ark. Academically inclined as well, Joan pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, earning a bachelor’s degree in English. During her university years, she took on minor roles in films, but her true breakthrough arrived after graduation when she became a cast member on the iconic “Saturday Night Live.” Although her tenure on SNL lasted only a single season, it served as a launchpad for diverse and exciting projects.
Cusack’s career gained momentum with a memorable performance in the critically acclaimed “Broadcast News” (1987). She garnered her first Oscar nomination for her compelling role in “Working Girl” (1988). Among her extensive filmography, “Addams Family Values” (1993) stands out, where she brilliantly portrayed Debbie Jellinsky, theBlack Widow killer who targets Uncle Fester. This role solidified her reputation for delivering both comedic and nuanced performances.
Further showcasing her versatility, other notable film credits include “Corrina, Corrina” (1994), “Grosse Pointe Blank” (1997), and “In & Out” (1997), the latter earning her a second Oscar nomination. For younger audiences, she is widely recognized as Rosalie Mullins, the enthusiastic principal in “School of Rock” (2003). Joan Cusack also lent her exceptional voice talent to Jessie, the yodeling cowgirl in the beloved “Toy Story” franchise (“Toy Story 2” (1999), “Toy Story 3” (2010), and “Toy Story 4” (2019)). Her foray into television also proved successful, notably with her role in “Shameless” (2011-2015), which earned her an Emmy nomination.
In her personal life, Joan Cusack is married to Dick Burke, an attorney. They are parents to two sons, Dylan and Miles. From her memorable portrayal of Debbie Jellinsky in “Addams Family Values” to her numerous acclaimed roles, Joan Cusack has solidified her place as a versatile and enduring talent in Hollywood. Her contributions to film and television continue to entertain and resonate with audiences worldwide.
