Lily Tomlin is an American actress, comedian, writer, singer, and producer who has been entertaining audiences since the 1960s. She is best known for her roles in films such as 9 to 5 and All of Me, as well as her iconic characters on the sketch comedy show Laugh-In. Tomlin has won numerous awards for her work, including a Tony Award, a Grammy Award, and two Emmy Awards. In addition, she has been nominated for an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award. Here, we’ll take a look at the life and career of this legendary performer.
Lily Tomlin’s Biography
Lily Tomlin was born Mary Jean Tomlin on September 1, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan. She was the daughter of Lillie Mae, a housewife, and Guy Tomlin, a factory worker. Tomlin grew up in a working-class family and was the youngest of three children. She attended Cass Technical High School, where she developed an interest in comedy and performing. After graduating, Tomlin attended Wayne State University, where she studied philosophy and psychology.
Tomlin began her career in the late 1960s, performing stand-up comedy in nightclubs in Detroit and New York City. She quickly gained recognition for her unique, often absurdist humor. In 1969, she made her television debut on the sketch comedy show Laugh-In. Her characters, such as Ernestine the Telephone Operator, quickly became iconic and made Tomlin a household name.
Tomlin’s Professional Accomplishments
Tomlin continued to find success in the 1970s, with roles in films such as Nashville, The Late Show, and 9 to 5. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in Nashville and won a Golden Globe for her work in 9 to 5. In addition, she won a Tony Award for her one-woman Broadway show, The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe.
Tomlin has also had great success as a voice actor. She voiced the character of Ms. Frizzle on the popular children’s television show The Magic School Bus and has also lent her voice to characters in films such as A Bug’s Life, Toy Story 3, and Zootopia. In addition, she has won two Emmy Awards, one for her work on the television show Murphy Brown and one for the documentary film An Apology to Elephants.
Tomlin has also released several comedy albums, including her Grammy-winning album This Is a Recording. In recent years, she has continued to appear in films and television shows, such as Damages, Web Therapy, and Grace and Frankie.
Lily Tomlin is an iconic performer who has been entertaining audiences for over 50 years. Her unique brand of comedy and her memorable characters have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Throughout her career, she has won numerous awards, including a Tony Award, a Grammy Award, and two Emmy Awards. Tomlin continues to be an active performer, appearing in films and television shows and lending her voice to animated films.
