Laurie Metcalf is an accomplished American actress known for her exceptional performances in theater, film, and television. Born on June 16, 1955, she has been active in the entertainment industry since the 1970s. Metcalf gained recognition for her role in the play 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in the film 'The Big Chill'.