Mary McCormack Bio
Mary McCormack (born February 8, 1969) is an American actress known for her prominent roles in multiple television series and films. She gained recognition for leading roles as Justine Appleton on the series Murder One, Deputy National Security Adviser Kate Harper on The West Wing, and Mary Shannon on In Plain Sight. McCormack’s film work includes notable roles in movies such as Private Parts and Deep Impact. With an active career starting in 1994, she continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Background
Mary McCormack was born in Plainfield, New Jersey, to Norah and William McCormack. Her parents divorced in 1990. She has a sister, Bridget, who served as the chief justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, and a brother, William, who is an actor, writer, and producer. McCormack graduated from the Wardlaw-Hartridge School in Edison, New Jersey, in 1987. She then attended Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in comparative arts, focusing on painting and creative writing, in 1991.
Path to Hollywood
McCormack began her acting career at the age of 12, performing in Gian Carlo Menotti’s Christmas opera Amahl and the Night Visitors. She continued her stage work in musicals and completed an acting program at the William Esper Studio. McCormack has participated in various New York theater productions, including The Atlantic Theater Company and Naked Angels, where she appeared in Jon Robin Baitz’s A Fair Country. Her early roles helped her transition into the broader film and television industry.
Mary McCormack Career
Early Career (1994–2003)
McCormack’s first notable work came with her role as Justine Appleton on the television series Murder One, which aired from 1995 to 1997. She also starred in the HBO series K Street. In 1997, she appeared in Howard Stern’s film Private Parts, which contributed to her growing recognition. During this period, McCormack began to establish herself as a talented actress in both television and film.
Breakthrough (2004–2012)
In 2004, McCormack joined the cast of The West Wing as Deputy National Security Advisor and former CIA officer Kate Harper. Her character quickly became a recurring role throughout the show’s last three seasons, further solidifying her status in the industry. Following The West Wing, she starred in the USA Network series In Plain Sight from 2008 to 2012, portraying Mary Shannon, a deputy United States marshal involved in the Federal Witness Protection Program. This role was pivotal in showcasing her range as an actress and contributed to her popularity.
Notable Works and Milestones
McCormack’s signature works include her performances in Murder One, The West Wing, and In Plain Sight. She was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Play for her role in the 2008 Broadway revival of Boeing Boeing. Her career has been marked by a series of successful television roles and film appearances, demonstrating her versatility and talent.
Mary McCormack Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Mary McCormack has received notable nominations, including a Tony Award nomination for her performance in Boeing Boeing.
Mary McCormack Awards Won
Mary McCormack has not won any major awards but has been recognized for her performances in various productions.
Mary McCormack Family
Mary McCormack is married to director and producer Michael Morris, whom she wed in July 2003. Together, they have three children. McCormack’s family includes her sister Bridget, who has had a distinguished career in law, and her brother William, who is involved in the entertainment industry.
Personal Life
In addition to her acting career, McCormack and her husband are executive producers of the game show 25 Words or Less, where she frequently appears as a celebrity panelist. She is also known to be the godmother of her In Plain Sight co-star Fred Weller’s daughter. McCormack maintains a relatively private personal life while actively participating in her professional endeavors.
