Judith Ivey, a celebrated American actress and theatre director, has left an unforgettable mark on Broadway, film, and television. With a career spanning more than four decades, she has become widely admired for her versatility, charm, and dedication to the performing arts. Known for her two Tony Award-winning performances, Ivey continues to inspire new generations of artists and theatre enthusiasts.
Born on September 4, 1951, in El Paso, Texas, Judith Ivey rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most respected names in American entertainment. Her remarkable journey, filled with award-winning stage roles, acclaimed film appearances, and memorable television characters, makes her a true icon whose legacy in theatre and cinema remains timeless.
Key Fact
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Judith Lee Ivey |
| Birth Date/Place | September 4, 1951; El Paso, Texas, USA |
| Age | 74 years old (as of 2025) |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches (1.65 meters) |
| Weight | 61 kg (135 lbs) |
| Family Background | Daughter of Nathan Aldean Ivey (college instructor and dean) and Dorothy Lee Ivey (teacher) |
| Marital Status | Married Tim Braine (1989–present); formerly married to Ricardo Gutierrez (1973–1978) |
| Nationality | American |
Early Life of Judith Ivey
Judith Lee Ivey was born on September 4, 1951, in El Paso, Texas, to Nathan Ivey, a dedicated teacher, and Dorothy Ivey, a caring homemaker. Growing up in a nurturing household, she developed a passion for creativity and storytelling at an early age. Her upbringing in a supportive family environment laid the foundation for the confidence and determination that would later define her career.
During her academic years, Ivey pursued higher education at Illinois State University, where she refined her artistic skills and embraced her love for theatre. This period proved to be a turning point, allowing her to combine discipline with artistic passion. The blend of strong family values and quality education played a vital role in shaping Judith Ivey into the award-winning actress and director admired across stage, film, and television.
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Full name/Real name:
Judith Lee Ivey
Birth date/Birth place:
September 4, 1951; El Paso, Texas, USA
Family background:
Daughter of Nathan Aldean Ivey (college instructor and dean) and Dorothy Lee Ivey (teacher)
School/University:
Attended Marion High School in Marion, Illinois; studied acting at John A. Logan College, Southern Illinois University (Carbondale), and Illinois State University (Normal, Illinois)
Career Journey of Judith Ivey
Judith Ivey’s career journey is a remarkable story of talent, persistence, and success across stage, film, and television. Her breakthrough came in the early 1980s with her Broadway performance in Steaming (1983), which earned her the first Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play. Just two years later, she solidified her reputation with another Tony Award for Hurlyburly (1985), making her one of the few actresses to win the honor twice in such a short span. These achievements marked the beginning of her rise as a powerful force in American theatre.
The peak years of Judith Ivey’s career showcased her versatility as she transitioned into film and television while maintaining her strong stage presence. She delivered standout performances in films like The Lonely Guy (1984), The Woman in Red (1984), Brighton Beach Memoirs (1986), and the acclaimed The Devil’s Advocate (1997). On television, she appeared in popular series such as Down Home (1990–91) and Designing Women (1992–93), while also earning an Emmy nomination for What the Deaf Man Heard.
Her notable works across multiple mediums highlight her ability to captivate audiences with both dramatic intensity and comedic brilliance, cementing her status as one of America’s most accomplished actresses and theatre directors.
Physical Appearance of Judith Ivey
Age:
74 years
Height:
5 feet 5 inches
Weight:
61 kg (135 lbs)
Physical attributes:
Known for a versatile acting presence suited for stage, film, and television with a distinguished and expressive style
Major Achievements of Judith Ivey
Throughout her career, Judith Ivey has earned critical acclaim and multiple prestigious awards, making her one of the most respected figures in the entertainment industry. She is a two-time Tony Award winner for Best Featured Actress in a Play, first for Steaming (1983) and then for Hurlyburly (1985). Beyond these wins, she received additional Tony Award nominations for Park Your Car in Harvard Yard (1992) and The Heiress (2013), showcasing her consistent excellence on Broadway.
Her talent has also been recognized beyond the stage. Judith Ivey received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for her role in What the Deaf Man Heard, further proving her versatility across television. She has also been honored with a Lucille Lortel Award for her contributions to Off-Broadway theatre. These achievements highlight not only her extraordinary skill as an actress and director but also her lasting legacy in American theatre, film, and television.
Personal Life
Family:
Daughter of Nathan Aldean Ivey (college instructor and dean) and Dorothy Lee Ivey (teacher). She was married to actor Ricardo Gutierrez from 1973 to 1978.
Nationality of Judith Ivey:
American
Religion:
Christianity
Ethnicity:
Predominantly English with Scottish, German, and distant Welsh ancestry
Marital status/Relationship:
Married to Tim Braine since 1989
Net worth of Judith Ivey:
$5 million
Interesting Facts about Judith Ivey
- Two-Time Tony Award Winner – She won for Steaming (1983) and Hurlyburly (1985).
- Versatile Performer – Judith has excelled in theatre, film, and television for over four decades.
- Director as well as Actress – Beyond acting, she has directed several successful stage productions.
- Emmy-Nominated Star – She earned a Primetime Emmy nomination for What the Deaf Man Heard.
- Respected Educator – Judith has also shared her craft by leading theatre masterclasses and mentoring young actors.
Conclusion
Judith Ivey’s life and career stand as a testament to dedication, versatility, and artistic brilliance. From her early beginnings in Texas to becoming a two-time Tony Award-winning actress with acclaimed performances on Broadway, film, and television, she has built a legacy that continues to inspire. Her ability to transition seamlessly between acting and directing showcases her rare talent and commitment to storytelling.
Even after decades in the entertainment industry, Judith Ivey remains a highly respected figure in American theatre and cinema. Her achievements not only highlight her personal success but also her contribution to the growth of the performing arts. For aspiring actors and theatre enthusiasts, her journey reflects the power of passion, persistence, and excellence.
FAQs about Judith Ivey
Q1: Who is Judith Ivey?
Judith Ivey is an award-winning American actress and theatre director known for her work on Broadway, film, and television.
Q2: How many Tony Awards has Judith Ivey won?
She has won two Tony Awards for Best Featured Actress in a Play (Steaming and Hurlyburly).
Q3: What are some of Judith Ivey’s notable films?
Her notable films include The Lonely Guy (1984), The Devil’s Advocate (1997), and Women Talking (2022).
Q4: Did Judith Ivey work in television?
Yes, she appeared in popular shows like Designing Women, Down Home, and earned an Emmy nomination for What the Deaf Man Heard.
Q5: What is Judith Ivey’s net worth?
Judith Ivey’s estimated net worth is around $5 million.
