Allison Janney

Allison Janney is known for her extensive work across stage, film, and television. After graduating from Kenyon College, Janney studied at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York and trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. She developed her acting skills through years of stage work and television appearances before making her Broadway debut in a revival of Noel Coward's "Present Laughter." Janney later received a Tony Award nomination for her performance in the Roundabout Theatre Company's revival of Arthur Miller's "A View from the Bridge," and earned a second Tony nomination for her role in the original Broadway production of the musical "9 to 5."

Janney's breakthrough role came as White House Press Secretary and later Chief of Staff C.J. Cregg in the NBC political drama "The West Wing." Her performance earned her four Primetime Emmy Awards and established her as a prominent figure in television drama. Janney's portrayal of C.J. Cregg has been recognized as influential for women in public service.

In film, Janney has appeared in "American Beauty," "The Hours," "Juno," "Hairspray," and "The Help." She has also contributed voice work to animated films such as "Finding Nemo" and "Finding Dory." Janney's performance as LaVona Golden in the black comedy "I, Tonya" earned her the Academy Award, BAFTA Award, Golden Globe Award, Screen Actors Guild Award, and Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Supporting Actress.

On television, Janney starred for eight seasons as Bonnie Plunkett on the CBS sitcom "Mom," winning two additional Primetime Emmy Awards for the role and earning her 15th Emmy nomination for the series finale. She also won an Emmy for her guest work on Showtime's "Masters of Sex," making her one of the most Emmy-winning performers in acting history. Janney has continued to take on new roles, including in the Apple TV+ period comedy "Palm Royale" and as Vice President Grace Penn in Netflix's political drama "The Diplomat," which earned her nominations from the Critics Choice Awards, Golden Globe Awards, Emmy Awards, and Screen Actors Guild Awards. She has also joined the voice cast of the animated film "Minions & Monsters," further expanding her presence in the entertainment industry.