Marlo Thomas: Marlo Thomas, a name synonymous with talent, grace, and resilience, has captivated audiences for decades with her acting prowess and philanthropic efforts. Best known for her iconic role in the television series “That Girl,” Thomas has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment and beyond. In this article, we’ll explore 33 fascinating facts about this beloved movie celebrity.
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Marlo Thomas
31st Annual Gloria Awards, Arrival, New York, USA – 08 May 2019
1.Early Life: Marlo Thomas
Marlo Thomas was born on November 21, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, to a family deeply embedded in show business. Her father was the renowned comedian Danny Thomas, and her mother, Rose Marie Mantell, was a former singer.
2.Educational Pursuits:
Thomas studied at the University of Southern California, where she majored in teaching and later pursued acting at the Actor’s Studio in New York City.
3.That Girl:
Marlo Thomas is most famous for her portrayal of Ann Marie in the hit television series “That Girl,” which ran from 1966 to 1971. The show was groundbreaking, featuring an independent young woman pursuing her dreams in New York City.
4.Emmy Awards: Marlo Thomas
Her role in “That Girl” earned Marlo Thomas four Emmy Award nominations and a win for Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Comedy Series in 1966.
PASADENA, CA – SEPTEMBER
5.Golden Globe Winner:
In addition to her Emmy, she also won a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy for “That Girl.”
6.Broadway Debut:
Marlo Thomas made her Broadway debut in 1972 in the play “Thieves.”
7.Philanthropy: Marlo Thomas
Thomas is a passionate advocate for children’s health and founded the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, as a tribute to her father. The hospital is renowned for treating and researching childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
8.St. Jude’s Impact:
Under her leadership, St. Jude has raised billions of dollars for research and treatment. No family ever receives a bill from the hospital, which continues to save countless lives.
9.Recorded Albums:
Marlo Thomas released several successful children’s albums, including “Free to Be… You and Me,” which aimed to challenge gender stereotypes and promote equality.
10.Social Activist: Marlo Thomas
Beyond her work for St. Jude, Thomas has been involved in various social and political causes, advocating for women’s rights and racial equality.
11.Voice Acting:
She lent her voice to various animated films and series, including “The Real Story of Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” and “The Real Story of Humpty Dumpty.”
12.Author:
Thomas is also an accomplished author, with several books to her name, including “Free to Be… You and Me,” based on her acclaimed album.
13.Marriage: Marlo Thomas
Marlo Thomas married talk-show host and political commentator Phil Donahue in 1980, and their marriage has endured for over four decades.
14.Awards and Honors:
She has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to the arts and her philanthropic efforts, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
15.Film Appearances:
While primarily known for her television work, Marlo Thomas has also appeared in several films, including “Jenny” (1970) and “In the Spirit” (1990).
16.Broadway Return:
After a hiatus from Broadway, Thomas returned to the stage in 2010 in the Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Relatively Speaking.”
17.Lifetime Achievement Awards:
Marlo Thomas has been honored with several lifetime achievement awards, celebrating her enduring impact on the entertainment industry.
18.Legacy:
She is widely regarded as a trailblazer for women in television and an influential advocate for children’s health.
19.Children: Marlo Thomas
Marlo Thomas and Phil Donahue do not have biological children but have spoken openly about their decision not to have them, emphasizing their commitment to St. Jude and other children in need.
20.Voice for Change:
Throughout her career, Thomas has used her platform to speak out against injustice and inequality, particularly in the areas of race and gender.
21.Health Initiatives:
In addition to her work with St. Jude, she has been involved in various health initiatives, such as raising awareness about childhood obesity.
22.Broadway Producer:
Beyond her acting career, she has also ventured into producing on Broadway, with notable productions like “Social Security” and “The Play’s the Thing.”
23.Religion:
Marlo Thomas was raised in a Lebanese Catholic family but later embraced her husband’s Catholic faith.
24.Social Media:
Thomas has embraced social media to connect with fans and promote her philanthropic work.
25.Fashion Icon:
Over the years, she has been recognized for her timeless style and grace, becoming a fashion icon in her own right.
26.Documentary Narration:
She has lent her voice to various documentaries, providing narration that adds depth and insight to important stories.
27.Family Ties:
Marlo Thomas is the aunt of actress Jennifer Aniston, and the two share a close bond.
28.Age-Defying:
Despite her age, Thomas continues to be active in her career and philanthropic endeavors, inspiring people of all generations.
29.Preserving Her Father’s Legacy:
Marlo Thomas has worked tirelessly to preserve the legacy of her father, Danny Thomas, and continue his mission of helping children.
30.Iconic Friends:
Over the years, she has built enduring friendships with iconic figures in the entertainment industry, such as Carol Burnett and Mary Tyler Moore.
31.Entrepreneurial Ventures
She has explored various entrepreneurial ventures, including designing a line of clothing for HSN (Home Shopping Network).
32.Humanitarian Awards:
Thomas has received numerous humanitarian awards for her work in promoting children’s health and well-being.
33.Continued Impact:
Marlo Thomas’s impact on the entertainment industry and her commitment to making the world a better place through her philanthropy continue to inspire and touch the lives of many.
Marlo Thomas is not just a celebrated movie celebrity; she is also a force for good in the world. Her enduring career, philanthropic efforts, and dedication to social change have left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and society as a whole. As we celebrate her life and work, we are reminded of the power of individuals to make a positive difference in the world.