Patricia Davies Clarkson, born December 29, 1959, is an American actress known for her extensive filmography and award-winning performances. She launched her acting career in 1985 and has since starred in a variety of independent film features and major studio productions. Born and raised in New Orleans, Ms. Clarkson earned a drama degree from Fordham University before obtaining a Master of Fine Arts degree from the Yale School of Drama. Her film debut was in the mob drama The Untouchables (1987), followed by a supporting role in The Dead Pool (1988). She has since made appearances in numerous films including The Green Mile (1999), Dogville (2003), and Shutter Island (2010). Besides cinema, she also earned critical acclaim for her guest role in the HBO series Six Feet Under from 2002 to 2005 and more recently, co-starred with Amy Adams in the HBO miniseries Sharp Objects in 2018. In 2023, Ms. Clarkson took the lead role in Gray, an espionage thriller series.

An in-depth look into her early life reveals that she was born to a politician mother and a school administrator father. She showed her passion for acting at an early age and pursued her education, eventually graduating from the Yale School of Drama in 1985. Throughout her prolific career, Patricia Clarkson has worked with many directors and actors, earning a name for her ability to portray diverse characters. Her groundbreaking performances have earned her a Golden Globe Award, three Primetime Emmy Awards, and nominations for an Academy Award and a Tony Award. Off-stage, Ms. Clarkson is also acknowledged for her environmental advocacy, particularly in the wake of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.