Toni Collette

Toni Collette is an Australian actress and musician who has made a name for herself in both film and television, as well as on the Broadway stage. Born on November 1, 1972, in Sydney, Australia, Collette began her career in the entertainment industry as a musician, performing in a number of rock bands throughout the 1990s.

However, it was her acting talent that ultimately led her to pursue a career in the performing arts. Collette made her Broadway debut in 2000, starring in the revival of the musical "The Wild Party." The production, which also starred Mandy Patinkin and Eartha Kitt, received mixed reviews from critics but showcased Collette's impressive singing and acting abilities.
Prior to her Broadway debut, Collette had already made a name for herself in the film industry, earning critical acclaim for her performances in a number of independent films. In 1994, she starred in the comedy-drama "Muriel's Wedding," playing the titular character of Muriel Heslop. The film was a commercial and critical success, and Collette's performance earned her a nomination for the Australian Film Institute Award for Best Actress.
Collette continued to receive critical praise for her work in independent films throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. In 1999, she starred in the psychological thriller "The Sixth Sense," playing the mother of a young boy who can see and communicate with the dead. The film was a massive commercial success, grossing over $672 million worldwide, and earned Collette a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
In addition to her film work, Collette has also made a name for herself on television. In 2013, she starred in the critically acclaimed series "Hostages," playing a surgeon who is taken hostage along with her family by a group of rogue FBI agents. The series was praised for its suspenseful plot and strong performances, and Collette's portrayal of the strong-willed Dr. Ellen Sanders earned her a nomination for the Critics' Choice Television Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series.
Collette has also continued to pursue her passion for music throughout her career. In 2006, she formed the band Toni Collette & the Finish, which released its debut album, "Beautiful Awkward Pictures," in 2006. The album was well-received by critics and showcased Collette's impressive vocal range and songwriting abilities.
Despite her success in film, television, and music, Collette has always remained committed to her work on the stage. In addition to her Broadway debut in "The Wild Party," she has also starred in a number of other stage productions, including "Uncle Vanya" at the Sydney Theatre Company and "The Yellow Wallpaper" at the Sydney Opera House.
Throughout her career, Collette has proven herself to be a versatile and talented performer, equally at home in dramatic and comedic roles. Her ability to inhabit complex and nuanced characters has earned her critical acclaim and a legion of fans around the world. With her talent, dedication, and passion for her craft, Toni Collette is sure to continue making an impact in the entertainment industry for years to come.