Gloria Reuben Bio
Gloria Elizabeth Reuben (born June 9, 1964) is a Canadian-American actress, producer, and singer. She is well-known for her role as Jeanie Boulet on the medical drama ER (1995–1999, 2008), for which she was twice nominated for an Emmy Award, and for portraying Elizabeth Keckley in the 2012 Steven Spielberg–directed film Lincoln. She has featured in films such as Timecop (1994), Nick of Time (1995), Admission (2013), and Reasonable Doubt (2014). She played Krista Gordon on Mr. Robot (2015–2019), as well as a recurring character on City on a Hill (2019-2021). Beginning in 2025, she is a series regular on Boston Blue.
Early Life and Background
Gloria Elizabeth Reuben was born on June 9, 1964, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, to Pearl Avis Mills, a classical singer, and Cyril George Reuben, a civil engineer. Her parents were both Jamaican-born. Her father had Jewish ancestry, while her mother was of mostly African descent. Reuben was one of six children, and her family faced challenges, including the early death of her father. She began learning piano as a child and later studied music technique and theory, ballet, and jazz at the Royal Conservatory of Music.
Path to Hollywood
Reuben began her career as an actress after working as a model and in television advertisements. She gained prominence on the American television series ER as Jeanie Boulet, an HIV-positive physician assistant, which led to her involvement in HIV/AIDS activism. Her role on ER was a significant turning point in her career, and she continued to take on various roles in television and film.
Gloria Reuben Career
Early Career (1985–1995)
Gloria Reuben’s career began in 1985, and she quickly made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. Her first notable work was on the television series ER, where she became a full-time cast member in the second season. During this period, she was recognized by People magazine as one of the 50 Most Beautiful People in the World in 1996.
Breakthrough (1995–2008)
Reuben’s breakthrough role came with her portrayal of Jeanie Boulet on ER, which she played from 1995 until 1999, and later returned for a guest appearance in 2008. This role not only showcased her acting talent but also allowed her to advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness. In addition to her work on ER, she appeared in films such as Timecop and Nick of Time, further establishing her presence in Hollywood.
Notable Works and Milestones
Reuben’s signature work includes her role in ER and her portrayal of Elizabeth Keckley in Lincoln. She has received critical acclaim for her performances and has been involved in various significant projects throughout her career.
Gloria Reuben Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Gloria Reuben has received multiple nominations, including two Emmy Award nominations for her role on ER.
Gloria Reuben Awards Won
Gloria Reuben has won the Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Lead Actress for her performance in the off-Broadway play Stuff Happens.
Gloria Reuben Family
Gloria Reuben was born into a family of six children. She has faced personal losses, including the deaths of her older half-brother, Denis Simpson, and her younger brother, David.
Personal Life
Gloria Reuben resides in Brooklyn, New York. She is a committed social activist, particularly focused on HIV/AIDS awareness and environmental issues. Reuben is the president of Waterkeeper Alliance and serves as a special adviser on climate change for The Climate Reality Project.
