Has the name Joanne Whalley, etched in the annals of British and international entertainment, truly captured the essence of a versatile actress, singer and artist? The answer is a resounding yes, her career, spanning decades and diverse roles, proves her enduring talent and appeal.
Born on August 25, 1961, in Salford, Lancashire, England, Joanne Whalley's journey in the world of entertainment began when she was just 13 years old in 1974. Her early exposure to the acting world paved the way for a career filled with diverse roles in film, television, and even music. From the bustling sets of British television to the glamorous locations of Hollywood productions, Whalley has navigated the industry with a unique blend of skill, beauty, and dedication. Her work reflects an undeniable commitment to her craft.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Joanne Whalley |
| Date of Birth | August 25, 1961 |
| Place of Birth | Salford, Lancashire, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Known For | Actress, Singer |
| Notable Roles | Sorsha in Willow, Liz Diamond in 44 Inch Chest, Scarlett O'Hara in Scarlett |
| Spouse | Val Kilmer (m. 19881996) |
| Children | Mercedes Kilmer, Jack Kilmer |
| Early Career | Began acting at age 13; Screen debut in The Birth of The Beatles (1979); Part of the band The Slowguns (1979); Lead singer of Cindy and The (1982) |
| Filmography Highlights | Dance with a Stranger (1985), Willow (1988), Scandal (1989), The Secret Rapture (1993), Mother's Boys (1994), 44 Inch Chest (2009), Paul, Apostle of Christ (2018) |
| Television Highlights | The Singing Detective, Edge of Darkness, Scarlett, The Borgias, The Virgin Queen |
| Awards and Recognition | BAFTA nomination for The Edge of Darkness; San Diego Film Critics Society Award for 44 Inch Chest |
| Additional Information | Met Val Kilmer on the set of Willow; Divorced after eight years of marriage; Known for her portrayal of complex and strong female characters. |
| Reference | IMDB |
Whalley's early foray into the entertainment industry wasn't limited to acting. In 1979, she showcased her musical talent as part of a band called The Slowguns, based in Stockport, England. Although she departed the band before their singles were released, this experience provided her with early exposure to the music world. Later, in 1982, she took center stage as the lead singer, known as Cindy, of the pop band Cindy and The...
Her breakout role came in the 1980s, as she became a firm fixture on British television screens. She graced the screen in the hit series The Singing Detective and the nuclear industry drama The Edge of Darkness. Her portrayal in The Edge of Darkness earned her a BAFTA nomination, a testament to her acting prowess.
The film Willow (1988) not only brought Whalley international recognition but also marked a significant personal chapter in her life. It was on the set of this fantasy epic that she met American actor Val Kilmer. The two eventually married in 1988. Their on-screen and off-screen chemistry captivated audiences, and the film remains a cherished part of her legacy. They have two children together, Mercedes and Jack, both of whom followed in their parents' footsteps into the world of acting and music.
Whalley's versatility is evident in her diverse filmography, with roles in nearly 30 feature films. From the critically acclaimed Dance with a Stranger (1985) to the historical drama Scandal (1989), she has consistently chosen roles that showcase her range and depth. The Secret Rapture (1993) and Mother's Boys (1994) further solidified her reputation as a talented and sought-after actress. In 44 Inch Chest, a 2009 British crime drama, she played the role of Liz Diamond. Her performance, along with that of her fellow cast members, earned her the San Diego Film Critics Society Award for Best Ensemble Performance.
Her talents have been well-received, as demonstrated in her work in television. She has been known for roles such as Sorsha in Willow, vanozza in the borgias and priscilla in paul, apostle of christ. She is known for portraying the role of Liz Diamond. Her roles in the TV series, such as Scarlett, where she played Scarlett O'Hara, showcase her ability to take on complex characters in various genres. Other series include Edge of Darkness and The Singing Detective, further expanding her presence on television.
Despite the triumphs, Whalley's personal life has also been a subject of public interest. Her marriage to Val Kilmer ended in a split, as reported by the Tampa Bay Times. Their paths crossed again when they met on the set of Willow, their relationship evolved, and they married in 1988. Val Kilmers death from pneumonia on April 1, after a battle with throat cancer, was met with a wave of tributes. The news of his death was announced by Mercedes to the New York Times.
Whalley's career continues to evolve, with roles that demonstrate her enduring talent. She's known for her roles in Willow and Scandal. Her portrayal of Sorsha, in the sequel to Willow, brought a favorite line of dialogue to life, adding depth to the character.
Joanne Whalley, now 63, continues to be a respected figure in the entertainment industry. She holds British nationality, was born on August 25, 1961, and has delivered captivating performances. Her commitment to her craft, from her screen debut in 1979 to her latest projects, ensures that she remains a significant and captivating figure in film and television. Her versatility and talent, combined with a profound dedication to her roles, have undoubtedly made her an enduring star in the world of entertainment.
