Glenn Close Movies: A Legendary Career of Unmatched Versatility
Introduction
In the world of cinema and theater, few names command as much respect and admiration as Glenn Close. With a career spanning over four decades, Close has consistently delivered performances filled with depth, intelligence, and intensity. From classic dramas to psychological thrillers, her filmography is a testament to her dedication and mastery of the craft.
In this article, we explore Glenn Close’s prolific career, her most iconic movie roles, her rise through the 1980s, and her continued relevance in the industry today. Whether you’re discovering her work for the first time or revisiting her classics, this guide offers a comprehensive look at one of Hollywood’s most revered actresses.
Who is Glenn Close?
Born on March 19, 1947, in Greenwich, Connecticut, Glenn Close grew up in a politically active and artistic household. She is the daughter of William Taliaferro Close, a prominent doctor, and Bettine Moore Close, a philanthropist. Glenn was exposed to both intellectual and creative influences early on.
Her formal training came from the College of William & Mary, where she majored in drama and anthropology. After graduating in 1974, she began her career on stage, quickly earning acclaim for her performances on and off-Broadway. Her transition to film in the early 1980s marked the beginning of an extraordinary screen career.
Glenn Close’s Film Debut and Rise in the 1980s
Glenn Close’s cinematic debut came in 1982 with The World According to Garp, where she played Jenny Fields, a strong-willed feminist and mother. Her performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress—an incredible achievement for a first film role.
This marked the beginning of a golden era in her film career. Throughout the 1980s, she became a critical darling and a household name, known for her emotionally intense, intelligent characters.
Top Glenn Close Movies from the 1980s
The World According to Garp (1982)
– Role: Jenny Fields
– Awards: Academy Award Nomination (Supporting Actress)
The Big Chill (1983)
– Role: Sarah Cooper
– A story of old college friends reuniting—an ensemble film that’s become a cultural classic.
The Natural (1984)
– Role: Iris Gaines
– Co-starring Robert Redford, this baseball-themed drama earned her another Oscar nomination.
Fatal Attraction (1987)
– Role: Alex Forrest
– One of her most iconic roles. A box office smash and pop culture phenomenon. Earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
Dangerous Liaisons (1988)
– Role: Marquise de Merteuil
– A performance filled with elegance and manipulation. Yet another Oscar nomination and arguably one of her finest dramatic roles.
Glenn Close Movies in Order: A Selective Filmography
Here are some highlights from her impressive body of work, spanning decades:
The World According to Garp (1982)
The Big Chill (1983)
The Natural (1984)
Jagged Edge (1985)
Fatal Attraction (1987)
Dangerous Liaisons (1988)
Reversal of Fortune (1990)
101 Dalmatians (1996) – as Cruella de Vil
Air Force One (1997)
Albert Nobbs (2011)
The Wife (2017)
Hillbilly Elegy (2020)
The Summer Book (2024)
Glenn Close Movies on Netflix
Several of Glenn Close’s films have been available on Netflix over the years, such as:
Hillbilly Elegy (2020): Close portrays Bonnie “Mamaw” Vance, a role that earned her both Oscar and BAFTA nominations.
The Wife (2017): An understated yet powerful performance that finally earned her the Golden Globe for Best Actress.
Albert Nobbs (2011): A transformative role where she played a woman living as a man in 19th-century Ireland.
Check your regional Netflix catalog to see which Glenn Close films are currently streaming.
Glenn Close in Television
Glenn Close has not just dominated the big screen but also left a strong mark on television. She won three Primetime Emmy Awards, including two for her role as Patty Hewes in Damages (2007–2012), a legal thriller where she played a brilliant and ruthless attorney.
Other notable TV appearances:
Serving in Silence: The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story (1995)
Sarah, Plain and Tall (1991)
The Shield (Guest Role, 2005)
Recent Projects: The Summer book
One of her most recent and critically acclaimed roles is in The Summer Book (2024), an adaptation of Tove Jansson’s novel. Glenn Close plays a widowed grandmother who spends a summer on a remote island with her granddaughter. The film explores themes of grief, memory, and intergenerational connection.
Critics have praised Close’s performance for its quiet strength and emotional depth, once again proving that she remains one of the most compelling actresses of our time.
Glenn Close’s Stage Career
While this article focuses on her movie career, Close’s work on stage cannot go unmentioned. She has won three Tony Awards:
The Real Thing (1983)
Death and the Maiden (1992)
Sunset Boulevard (1995)
She returned to Sunset Boulevard for a revival in 2017 and is currently linked to a film adaptation of the musical.
Glenn Close’s Personal Life and Education
Education: College of William & Mary, B.A. in Drama and Anthropology
Birthday: March 19, 1947
Age: 78 (as of 2025)
Spouse: Glenn Close has been married three times but is currently single. She has one daughter, Annie Starke, who is also an actress.
In recent interviews, Close has expressed contentment in her solitude, focusing instead on her work, philanthropy, and advocacy.
Glenn Close Net Worth
As of 2025, Glenn Close’s net worth is estimated to be around $50 million, accumulated through her film, television, theater work, and endorsement deals. Her continued presence in high-profile films and streaming projects contributes to her ongoing financial success.
Why Glenn Close Matters Today
Glenn Close is more than just a celebrated actress; she is a cultural icon. She represents a generation of performers who transitioned gracefully through decades of changing cinematic tastes. Whether she’s playing a vengeful lover, a noble wife, or a gender-disguised butler, Close brings a fierce intelligence and emotional truth to every role.
She has been nominated for the Academy Award eight times, without a win—a fact that many consider one of the greatest injustices in Oscar history. Yet, awards do not define greatness. Glenn Close’s influence, body of work, and continued relevance speak louder than any trophy.
Conclusion
From her dramatic powerhouse roles in the 1980s to her current presence in streaming and independent cinema, Glenn Close’s filmography is a rich journey through the landscape of modern acting. Her films continue to inspire, challenge, and captivate audiences around the world.
If you’re looking for more deep dives into legendary careers like Glenn Close’s, visit thgoted.com for curated film articles, actor profiles, and entertainment insight.
