RATINGS: Cast & Crew

DOB: April 28, 1952.

Background: Born in Pennsylvania and growing up in Ithaca, New York, McDonnell started her acting career with the Long Wharf Theatre Company and has an extensive theater background.

Filmography: Notable film credits include her Academy Award-nominated roles in "Dances With Wolves" (1990) and "Passion Fish" (1992) and her role as the First Lady in the blockbuster "Independence Day" (1996). On television, McDonnell has made numerous guest appearances, including her Emmy-nominated roles on "ER" (2001-2002) and "The Closer" (2010-2011), as well as a recent recurring role on "Grey's Anatomy" (2008-2009). Her most celebrated role of late has been as President Laura Roslin in the cult hit sci-fi series "Battlestar Galactica" (2004-2009).
 

Academy Awards:

Best Actress Nomination
"Passion Fish" (1992); lost to Emma Thompson ("Howards End")

Best Supporting Actress Nomination
"Dances With Wolves" (1990); lost to Whoopi Goldberg ("Ghost")

Emmy Awards:

Best Drama Guest Actress Nominations
"The Closer" (2011) - episode "Help Wanted"; lost to Loretta Devine ("Grey's Anatomy")
"ER" (2002); lost to Patricia Clarkson ("Six Feet Under")

Golden Globes:

Best Film Drama Actress Nomination
"Passion Fish" (1992); lost to Emma Thompson ("Howards End")

Best Film Supporting Actress Nomination
"Dances With Wolves" (1990); lost to Whoopi Goldberg ("Ghost")