Anne Bancroft Headshot

Anne Bancroft

Date of Death: June 06, 2005 (73)

Birth Place: New York, NY, USA

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Anne Bancroft BIO

Anne Bancroft was a versatile American actress who made her mark on both stage and screen. Born Anna Maria Louisa Italiano in the Bronx, New York in 1931, she grew up in a working-class family and began acting in school plays at an early age. She attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, where she honed her craft and adopted the stage name Anne Bancroft.

Bancroft made her Broadway debut in 1951 in the play "Two for the Seesaw," for which she received a Tony Award nomination. She went on to star in several other Broadway productions, including "The Miracle Worker" in 1959, in which she played Annie Sullivan, the teacher who helps a young Helen Keller overcome her disabilities. Bancroft won the Tony Award for Best Actress for her performance in "The Miracle Worker," and she reprised the role in the 1962 film adaptation, earning an Academy Award for Best Actress.

In addition to her stage work, Bancroft had a successful career in film and television. She appeared in a number of notable films, including "The Graduate" (1967), in which she played the seductive Mrs. Robinson opposite Dustin Hoffman, and "The Turning Point" (1977), for which she received another Academy Award nomination. Other film credits include "The Pumpkin Eater" (1964), "The Elephant Man" (1980), and "84 Charing Cross Road" (1987).

Bancroft also had a prolific career on television, appearing in numerous made-for-TV movies and miniseries. She won an Emmy Award for her performance in the 1970 TV movie "Annie, the Women in the Life of a Man," and she received Emmy nominations for her work in "The Elephant Man" and "Mrs. Cage" (1992).

Bancroft was known for her ability to portray complex and nuanced characters, and she was highly respected by her peers in the industry. She was married to comedian and filmmaker Mel Brooks from 1964 until her death in 2005, and the two had one son together.

In addition to her acting career, Bancroft was also a philanthropist and activist. She was a strong supporter of the arts and education, and she served as a board member of the American Film Institute and the Actors Studio. She was also involved in various charitable organizations, including the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and the American Cancer Society.

Bancroft's legacy as an actress and humanitarian continues to inspire new generations of performers and activists. Her work on stage and screen set a high standard for excellence and authenticity, and her dedication to giving back to her community serves as a reminder of the importance of using one's platform for good.

Anne Bancroft STAGE CREDITS

[Off-Broadway]
2002
Louise Nevelson

[Broadway]
1981
Stephanie Abrahams

[Broadway]
1977
Golda Meir

[Broadway]
1968
Anne

[Broadway]
1967
Regina Giddens

[Broadway]
1965
Sister Jean of the Angels

[Broadway]
Unknown, 1963
Mother Courage

[Broadway]
1959
Annie Sullivan

[Broadway]
1958
Gittel Mosca

Anne Bancroft Productions

 
[Off-Broadway, 2004]
Producer

Anne Bancroft Movies

[1952]Don't Bother to Knock Lyn Lesley

[1953]Treasure of the Golden Condor Marie, Comtesse de St. Malo

[1953]The Kid from Left Field Marian Foley

[1953]Tonight We Sing Emma Hurok

[1954]Gorilla at Large Laverne Miller

[1954]The Raid Katy Bishop

[1954]Demetrius and the Gladiators Paula

[1955]A Life in the Balance María Ibinia

[1955]New York Confidential Katherine Kathy Lupo

[1955]The Last Frontier Corinna Marston

[1955]The Naked Street Rosalie Regalzyk

[1956]Walk the Proud Land Tianay

[1956]Nightfall Marie Gardner

[1957]The Girl in Black Stockings Beth Dixon

[1957]The Restless Breed Angelita

[1962]The Miracle Worker Annie Sullivan

[1964]The Pumpkin Eater Jo Armitage

[1965]7 Women Dr. D.R. Cartwright

[1965]The Slender Thread Inga Dyson

[1967]The Graduate Mrs. Robinson

[1972]Young Winston Lady Randolph Churchill

[1975]The Hindenburg Countess Ursula von Reugen

[1975]The Prisoner of Second Avenue Edna Edison

[1976]Lipstick Carla Bondi

[1976]Silent Movie Anne Bancroft

[1977]The Turning Point Emma Jacklin

[1980]Fatso Antoinette

[1980]The Elephant Man Mrs. Kendal

[1983]To Be or Not to Be Anna Bronski

[1984]Garbo Talks Estelle Rolfe

[1985]Agnes of God Mother Miriam Ruth

[1986]'night, Mother Thelma Cates

[1987]84 Charing Cross Road Helene Hanff

[1988]Torch Song Trilogy Ma Beckoff

[1989]Bert Rigby, You're a Fool Meredith Perlestein

[1992]Love Potion No. 9 Madame Ruth

[1992]Honeymoon in Vegas Bea Singer

[1993]Point of No Return Amanda

[1993]Malice Ms. Kennsinger

[1993]Mr. Jones Dr. Catherine Holland

[1995]Dracula: Dead and Loving It Gypsy Woman

[1995]How to Make an American Quilt Glady Joe

[1995]Home for the Holidays Adele Larson

[1996]The Sunchaser Dr. Renata Baumbauer

[1997]G.I. Jane Lillian DeHaven

[1997]Critical Care Nun

[1998]Great Expectations Ms. Dinsmoor

[1998]Antz Queen

[1998]Waking Ned Devine Villager of Tullymore

[2000]Up at the Villa Princess San Ferdinando

[2000]Keeping the Faith Ruth Schram

[2001]Heartbreakers Gloria Vogal, Barbara

[2008]Delgo Sedessa

Anne Bancroft Videos

Anne Bancroft News


Hello, Gorgeous: FUNNY GIRL is Produced for the First Time in Brazil

Funny Girl gets a Brazilian production directed by Barchilon, starring Giulia Nadruz and Eriberto Leao as protagonists. With score by J. Styne, and lyrics by B. Merrill, the semi-biographical plot is based on the life and career of comedian and Broadway star Fanny Brice, featuring her stormy relationship with entrepreneur and gambler Nick Arnstein.

Review: GOLDA'S BALCONY at Shakespeare & Company

Annette Miller is outstanding. She takes the audience on a fascinating and detailed journey in which she seamlessly shifts between aspects of Meir’s character ranging from nurturing caregiver to the “Iron Lady” of Israeli Politics.

The Actors Studio to Present AREYTO Celebration of Latine Scene Work, Poetry, Song & Dance

This weekend, The Actors Studio will continue its 75th Anniversary celebration as the world’s most celebrated and influential membership association for professional actors, directors and playwrights.

ON THE FLY 2023: THEN & NOW to be Presented at The Actors Studio This Weekend

This weekend, The Actors Studio continues its 75th Anniversary celebration as the world’s most celebrated and influential membership association for professional actors, directors and playwrights.

Open-Door Playhouse to Debut A FALLIING STAR AT BUZZARD'S ROOST in June

On June 13, 2023, the classic American radio show gets a modern twist, as TV, Broadway and Rock stars join forces for the new musical: A FALLING STAR AT BUZZARD'S ROOST.

Brian Stokes Mitchell Will Receive the John Willis Award For Lifetime Achievement In The Theatre At 2023 Theatre World Awards

The Theatre World Awards Board of Directors announced that Tony Award-winner Brian Stokes Mitchell is the recipient of the 10th Annual John Willis Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre, which will be presented to him at this year's Theatre World Award ceremony.

The Actors Studio to Host Events Featuring Lois Smith & Celebrations of BIPOC Membership in May

In May, The Actors Studio will continue its 75th Anniversary celebration as the world’s most celebrated and influential membership association for professional actors, directors and playwrights.

Julie Benko, Jodie Comer & More Will Receive 2023 Theatre World Awards

The Theatre World Awards Board of Directors has announced the 2023 Honorees for the Theatre World Award for an Outstanding Debut Performance in a Broadway or Off-Broadway Production. See the full list!

The Actors Studio to Present Three Day Celebration of Estelle Parsons

The Actors Studio will continue its 75th Anniversary celebration with a three-day celebration of one of its most influential members, Academy Award winner and Co-Associate Artistic Director of The Actors Studio, Estelle Parsons.

The Actors Studio to Present THE PLAYWRIGHT: TALES FROM THE COLOR LINE This Spring

Continuing  its 75th Anniversary celebration as the world’s most celebrated and influential membership association for professional actors, directors and playwrights The Actors Studio will open its doors to the public for a special event, free and open to the public: The Playwright: Tales From The Color Line on Saturday, March 25 at 7PM.

The Actors Studio to Welcome the Public to Free Events, Including Play Readings & More

This Spring, The Actors Studio continues its 75th Anniversary celebration as the world’s most celebrated and influential membership association for professional actors, directors and playwrights.

The Actors Studio to Welcome the Public Inside its Doors for ACTORS STUDIO IN PROCESS

 The Actors Studio will open its doors to the public to observe “Actors Studio In Process” on Friday, March 3 and Saturday, March 4 at 7PM.

Chazz Palminteri, Bobby Moresco & More to be Featured in The Actors Studio February Events

In February, The Actors Studio will continue its 75th Anniversary celebration as the world’s most celebrated and influential membership association for professional actors, directors and playwrights.

Broadway Vet Lawrence Merritt Has Passed Away

Broadway vet Lawrence Merritt passed away on January 22, 2023. He succumbed to COVID/pneumonia at the Riverside Rehabilitation and Healing Center in NYC. Read more about Merritt's life and career.

The Actors Studio to Host Three Special 75th Anniversary Events in December

Starting this week, The Actors Studio will continue its 75th Anniversary celebration as the world’s most celebrated and influential membership association for professional actors, directors and playwrights. In December, the legendary studio will open its doors to the public for with three special events, each free and open to the public.

The Actors Studio Hosts Three Special 75th Anniversary Events This December

This December, The Actors Studio continues its 75th Anniversary celebration as the world's most celebrated and influential membership association for professional actors, directors and playwrights. The legendary studio, located at 432 West 44th Street, will open its doors to the public for with three special events, each free and open to the public.

77th Annual Theatre World Awards Ceremony Set for June 2023

The 77th Annual Theatre World Awards Ceremony will take place on Monday evening, June 5, 2023 beginning at 7:00PM. The Theatre World Awards are the oldest awards given for Outstanding Broadway and Off-Broadway Debut Performances.

AGNES OF GOD Announce At Old Academy Players

As part of their 100th Anniversary Season, Old Academy Players is proud to present the electrifying drama, Agnes of God, as its second mainstage production for 2022-2023. Agnes of God, written by John Pielmeier, debuted at The Eugene O'Neill Playwriting Conference in 1979, and later made its Broadway debut in 1982 starring Elizabeth Ashley, Geraldine Page and Amanda Plummer.

The Actors Studio to Welcome the Public Inside its Doors for ACTORS STUDIO IN PROCESS

The Actors Studio, now celebrating 75 years as the world’s most celebrated and influential membership association for professional actors, directors & playwrights, will open its doors to the public to observe “Actors Studio In Process” on Friday, November 11 and Saturday, November 12 at 7PM.

The Actors Studio to Present Conversation With Al Pacino & DOG DAY AFTERNOON Screening for 75th Anniversary

The Actors Studio will host a 75th Anniversary benefit screening of the Academy Award-winning film Dog Day Afternoon, followed by a live interview with the film’s star and The Actors Studio co-president Al Pacino. The Gala event will take place Thursday, October 27 at 7PM, the United Palace.

Anne Bancroft FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Anne Bancroft has appeared on Broadway in 8 shows.

Anne Bancroft has not appeared in the West End

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for Golda , Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for The Miracle Worker Performance (Theatre World Awards) for Two for the Seesaw and Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for Two For The Seesaw .

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for The Miracle Worker Performance (Theatre World Awards) for Two for the Seesawand Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for Two For The Seesaw.

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