Laura San Giacomo, a talented actress with a career spanning over three decades, has made an indelible mark in Hollywood through her diverse roles and charismatic performances. Best known for her breakout role as Cynthia in Sex, Lies, and Videotape (1989) and as Maya Gallo in the hit sitcom Just Shoot Me!, Laura has earned critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. Her nuanced acting, dedication to her craft, and commitment to personal causes make her a unique and influential figure in the entertainment industry.
Laura San Giacomo WIKI
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Laura San Giacomo |
| Date of Birth | November 14, 1962 |
| Place of Birth | West Orange, New Jersey, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actress |
| Notable Roles | Lies, and Videotape (as Cynthia)Sex, |
| Sex, Lies, and Videotape (as Cynthia) | |
| The Stand (as Nadine Cross) | |
| Awards | Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress (1991) |
| Education | Carnegie Mellon University, Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) |
| Spouse | Matt Adler (m. 1990–1992) |
| Thomas Sadoski (m. 2009–present) | |
| Children | 1 (with Thomas Sadoski) |
| Early Career | Started in theater before transitioning to film and television. Her breakthrough came with Sex, Lies, and Videotape in 1989. |
| Other Notable Films/TV | Pretty Woman (1990) |
| Naked in New York (1993) | |
| The Song of Names (2019) | |
| Social Media | N/A |
| Trivia | Laura is known for her distinct voice and her portrayal of independent and complex women. |
| She is also involved in philanthropy, particularly causes related to the arts and education. |
Early Life and Background
Laura San Giacomo was born on November 14, 1962, in West Orange, New Jersey. She grew up in nearby Denville in a tight-knit Italian-American family. Her parents, John and MaryJo San Giacomo, instilled in her a strong work ethic and an appreciation for the arts. Laura’s father worked as a paper mill owner, and a blend of tradition and creativity marked her upbringing.
From a young age, Laura was interested in acting, often participating in school plays and community theater productions. Her natural talent and passion for storytelling were evident, and her performances received praise from teachers and peers alike.
Laura San Giacomo’s Home & Education
San Giacomo attended Rutgers University in New Jersey, where she studied at the prestigious Mason Gross School of the Arts. Here, she honed her craft in theater, setting the foundation for her successful acting career. Her education at Rutgers provided her with the skills and confidence to take on challenging roles, earning her a place among the notable actresses of her generation.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Place | West Orange, New Jersey, USA |
| Hometown | West Orange, New Jersey, USA |
| School | West Orange High School |
| College | Carnegie Mellon University |
| Education Qualifications | BFA in Drama |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Christian |
| Ethnicity | Italian-American |
Entry into Acting
After graduating, Laura moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting. She began by performing in theater, earning roles in off-Broadway productions such as Italian-American Reconciliation by John Patrick Shanley. Her stage work honed her skills and prepared her for on-screen roles.
Her television debut came in the mid-1980s with guest appearances in popular shows like Miami Vice and Crime Story. However, it was her role in Steven Soderbergh’s Sex, Lies, and Videotape that marked her breakthrough in Hollywood.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Breakthrough Role
In 1989, Laura’s portrayal of Cynthia in Sex, Lies, and Videotape earned her widespread critical acclaim. The film, which explored themes of intimacy and relationships, became a cultural phenomenon and won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Laura’s performance earned her an Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Female and firmly established her as a rising star.
Notable Film Roles
Following her breakthrough, Laura starred in several films, including:
- Pretty Woman (1990): Played Kit De Luca, Vivian Ward’s vivacious best friend, in this romantic comedy classic.
- Quigley Down Under (1990): Starred opposite Tom Selleck in this Western adventure film, showcasing her versatility.
- Once Around (1991): Delivered a heartfelt performance in this romantic drama alongside Richard Dreyfuss and Holly Hunter.
Television Success
Laura transitioned to television in the late 1990s, landing the role of Maya Gallo in NBC’s Just Shoot Me! (1997–2003). Her portrayal of the sharp-witted and independent journalist earned her critical praise and a Golden Globe nomination. The show’s success further solidified her status as a versatile actress capable of excelling in both drama and comedy.
Laura San Giacomo’s Career & Achievements
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Debut | The Equalizer (1987, TV Series) |
| Awards/Honours | Golden Globe Nomination (1990) for Pretty Woman |
| Movies | Pretty Woman (1990), Sex, Lies, and Videotape (1989), Just Shoot Me! (TV Series, 1997-2003) |
Recent Work
In recent years, Laura has focused on television roles, appearing in shows like Saving Grace and NCIS. She also lent her voice to animated projects and continued to explore her passion for theater.
Personal Life
Laura married actor Cameron Dye in 1990, and they had a son, Mason Dye, in 1996. The couple divorced in 1998. She later married actor Matt Adler in 2000, and they remain happily married.
Laura’s son Mason was born with cerebral palsy, a condition that inspired her to become an advocate for individuals with disabilities. She has spoken openly about the challenges and joys of raising a child with special needs, earning admiration for her candor and dedication.
Boyfriends or Husband
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Marital Status | Married |
| Affairs/Boyfriends | Previously married to Cameron Dye (married 1990–1998) |
| Husband | Matt Adler (married in 2000) |
| Marriage Date | 2000 |
| Son | Mason Adler |
| Daughter | None |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
Laura San Giacomo’s Family & Relatives
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Father | John San Giacomo |
| Mother | Mary San Giacomo |
| Brother(s) | None |
| Sister(s) | None |
Physical Appearance and Body Measurements
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5’2″ (157 cm) |
| Weight | 123 lbs (56 kg) |
| Figure Measurements | 36-26-36 inches |
| Breast Size | 36 inches |
| Bra Size | 34C |
| Cup Size | C |
| Hip Size | 36 inches |
| Waist Size | 26 inches |
| Body Build | Curvy |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Tattoos | None |
| Piercings | Ears |
Laura San Giacomo Contact Information
Laura San Giacomo maintains a relatively low profile on social media, choosing to focus on her family and advocacy work rather than cultivating a public online persona. She occasionally participates in interviews and panels, where she shares insights into her career and personal life.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Website | Not available |
| @laurasangiacomo (Note: Followers can vary) | |
| YouTube | N/A |
| @laurasangiacomo | |
| Laura San Giacomo Official | |
| Snapchat | Not available |
Net Worth, Cars & Salary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | Not publicly disclosed |
| Net Worth | $6 million (estimated) |
| Cars Collection | Not publicly known |
Hobbies and Personal Interests
Laura is passionate about gardening, reading, and theater. She is also an advocate for disability rights and frequently volunteers her time to support organizations dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with special needs.
Impact on the Entertainment Industry
Laura San Giacomo’s ability to balance dramatic and comedic roles has made her a respected figure in Hollywood. Her performances have inspired a generation of actresses, and her advocacy for inclusion and representation has contributed to meaningful cultural shifts.
Challenges and Controversies
Laura San Giacomo has faced the challenge of balancing her successful career with raising a child with special needs. Her openness about these experiences has resonated with many fans, offering support and understanding to those in similar situations.
For more on how other public figures handle personal challenges, check out Chloe Grace Moretz and her journey.
Fun Facts and Trivia
- Laura is a trained stage actress and still considers theater her first love.
- She turned down several high-profile roles to focus on her family.
- Her portrayal of Kit in Pretty Woman was partly improvised, showcasing her comedic timing.
Conclusion
Laura San Giacomo’s career is a testament to her talent, resilience, and ability to adapt to different mediums. From critically acclaimed films to beloved sitcoms, she has continually pushed the boundaries of her craft while remaining true to her values.
As Laura continues to take on new challenges, both on-screen and off, her legacy as an actress, advocate, and trailblazer remains firmly intact. Fans eagerly await her next project, confident that she will continue to inspire and entertain for years to come.
Who is Laura San Giacomo?
Laura San Giacomo is a talented American actress best known for her roles in both television and film. She rose to fame in the 1990s with standout performances in the TV series Just Shoot Me! and movies like Sex, Lies, and Videotape. Known for her striking blend of beauty and wit, Laura has established herself as a versatile performer across a variety of genres.
What is Laura San Giacomo’s most famous role?
Laura San Giacomo is perhaps best recognized for her portrayal of Maya Gallo on the hit sitcom Just Shoot Me!. Her role as a sarcastic yet lovable fashion assistant won her critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination. Additionally, her breakout performance in Steven Soderbergh’s Sex, Lies, and Videotape solidified her place in Hollywood, earning her widespread recognition.
Where did Laura San Giacomo grow up?
Laura San Giacomo was born on November 14, 1962, in West Orange, New Jersey. Raised in a working-class family, she developed an early interest in acting and attended the prestigious Carnegie Mellon School of Drama in Pittsburgh, where she honed her skills before heading to New York City to pursue her career in theater and film.
Has Laura San Giacomo won any awards for her acting?
Yes, Laura San Giacomo has earned significant recognition throughout her career. She was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for her performance in Just Shoot Me! and has won multiple accolades for her work in both television and film. Her role in Sex, Lies, and Videotape was particularly praised, helping her secure several nominations and awards from film critics’ groups.
What are some of Laura San Giacomo’s most notable films?
In addition to Sex, Lies, and Videotape, Laura San Giacomo starred in several critically acclaimed films such as Pretty Woman (1990), where she played the best friend of Julia Roberts’ character, and Under Suspicion (2000), in which she showcased her dramatic talents. She also appeared in The Wrong Man (1993) and Quigley Down Under (1990), demonstrating her ability to tackle a variety of roles.
Is Laura San Giacomo active in television and film today?
While Laura San Giacomo has shifted her focus more toward television in recent years, she continues to maintain a strong presence in both industries. She recently appeared in the NBC series The Good Doctor, where she plays Dr. Audrey Lim’s mother. Although she is not as prolific as in her earlier career, San Giacomo still enjoys a solid fan following and contributes her talent to meaningful projects.
