Star of the 1990s TV show "thirtysomething," creating relatable characters and storylines that resonated with audiences. She's also a writer and producer, shaping the narrative of several films and TV shows.
Polly Draper is a creative force to be reckoned with, known for her iconic role as Ellyn Warren in the ABC drama series Thirtysomething, as well as her work as a writer, producer, and director in film and television. Her distinctive voice and impressive range have earned her a Writers Guild of America Award and numerous nominations throughout her career.
Born on June 15, 1955, in Gary, Indiana, Draper grew up in a family steeped in public service and the arts. Her father, William Henry Draper III, was the CEO of the United Nations Development Programme and president and chairman of the U.S. Export-Import Bank, while her mother, Phyllis, was a Peace Corps administrator. Draper's grandfather, William Henry Draper Jr., was a banker and diplomat.
Draper earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Yale University in 1977 and went on to receive her Master of Fine Arts from the Yale School of Drama in 1980.
Draper's breakthrough role came in 1987 when she starred as Ellyn Warren in Thirtysomething, a critically acclaimed drama series that explored the lives of a group of friends in their thirties. The show ran for four seasons and earned Draper an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
In the late 1990s, Draper turned her attention to writing and producing, making her screenwriting debut with The Tic Code, a drama film that explored the complexities of Tourette syndrome. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 1998 and earned Draper a Writers Guild of America Award nomination.
In 2004, Draper wrote and directed The Naked Brothers Band: The Movie, a comedy-drama film that spawned a successful Nickelodeon television series of the same name. The show, which ran for three seasons, followed the lives of a family of musicians and featured Draper's sons, Nat and Alex, as well as her niece, Jesse.
Draper's work on The Naked Brothers Band earned her a Writers Guild of America Award for Children's Script – Long Form or Special, as well as multiple Daytime Emmy nominations.
Throughout her career, Draper has been drawn to projects that explore the human condition and the complexities of relationships. Her work often touches on themes of family, love, and identity, and is marked by a deep empathy and understanding of her characters.
Draper has been married twice, first to playwright Kevin Wade and then to musician Michael Wolff, with whom she has two sons, Nat and Alex. Her family has been a source of inspiration for much of her work, including The Naked Brothers Band, which was influenced by her sons' musical talents and her husband's experiences with Tourette syndrome.
Polly Draper's contributions to film and television have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Her dedication to creating complex, nuanced characters and stories has inspired a generation of writers, producers, and actors. As a multifaceted artist, Draper continues to push boundaries and explore new creative horizons, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
45 Years Old
A talented actress and entrepreneur, known for her iconic roles in TV shows like "Dark Angel" and movies like "Sin City", as well as founding a successful consumer goods company.
57 Years Old
French-American actor known for his roles in TV dramas like "Alias" and romantic comedies like "Never Been Kissed", charming audiences with his versatile performances.
58 Years Old
Acclaimed actress starring in popular films like "Double Jeopardy" and "Kiss the Girls", known for her versatility in playing complex characters.
68 Years Old
A Scottish businessman who led several prominent companies, including Scottish Telecom and Edge Telecom, and is known for his strategic leadership and industry expertise.
62 Years Old
A talented actor, TV presenter, and producer, known for his versatility in films like "As Good as It Gets" and "Little Miss Sunshine", as well as hosting his own talk show.
80 Years Old
A multi-talented entertainer who has made a lasting impact in comedy, film, and music, known for his witty humor, physical comedy, and iconic roles in movies like "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles" and "Father of the Bride".
80 Years Old
An iconic actress, singer, and producer who has charmed audiences with her radiant smile and captivating performances in films like "Cactus Flower" and "Private Benjamin". She's a beloved Hollywood legend.
