Laura Benanti is a versatile and accomplished actress and singer, best known for her captivating performances on both Broadway and television. With a career spanning over two decades, she has showcased her immense talent in various genres, from musical theater to comedy and drama. But what has Laura Benanti been in that has made her such a recognizable name in the entertainment industry? In this article, we will explore the significant roles that have shaped her career and earned her critical acclaim.
Early Career Beginnings: A Broadway Star Emerges
Laura Benanti was born on July 15, 1979, in New York City, and her journey into the entertainment world began at a young age. She started her career in musical theater, and her breakthrough came when she was cast in the Broadway production of The Sound of Music in 1998. She played the role of Baroness Elsa Schraeder, which helped her gain recognition for her acting and vocal skills. The role was just the beginning, and from there, Benanti’s career began to soar.
Broadway: Defining Roles and Recognition
Laura Benanti’s Broadway career is a testament to her talent and hard work. She earned several accolades for her work, becoming a regular face on stage and a beloved performer within the Broadway community. One of her most iconic performances was in Gypsy, a revival of the classic musical, where she portrayed the role of Louise, also known as Gypsy Rose Lee. Benanti’s portrayal of the character garnered rave reviews, earning her a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical in 2008.
Benanti’s other Broadway credits include the roles of Cinderella in the 2002 revival of Into the Woods and Clara in The Most Happy Fella. She has also appeared in Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown and Swing!, cementing her place as one of the most respected musical theater actresses of her generation.
Her performance in She Loves Me (2016), where she played the role of Amalia Balash, received widespread critical acclaim, earning her another Tony nomination. The production, which was a revival of the beloved 1963 musical, allowed Benanti to showcase her incredible vocal range and ability to embody a character with both humor and heart. Her work on Broadway continues to inspire audiences, and it is clear that her stage presence is unmatched.
Television: A Dynamic Range of Roles
While Laura Benanti is primarily known for her work on Broadway, her television career has also been impressive. She has proven herself to be a versatile actress, effortlessly transitioning between comedic and dramatic roles. Benanti’s first major television role was in the NBC comedy series The Playboy Club, which aired in 2011. Although the show was short-lived, it marked the beginning of her television career, and her performance as the nightclub singer, Maureen, was well-received.
However, it was her role as the quirky and endearing Melania Trump on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert that truly brought Benanti widespread recognition. Her portrayal of the former First Lady became a recurring segment on the late-night show, with Benanti skillfully using her comedic timing and sharp impressions to provide commentary on the political landscape. Her impersonations were both hilarious and biting, earning her a strong following among viewers. She continued to appear as Melania Trump in various other segments, which helped solidify her as a standout comedic actress in television.
Supergirl: A Superheroic Turn
Laura Benanti’s television career took an exciting turn when she joined the cast of the hit superhero series Supergirl. She portrayed Alura Zor-El, the mother of Kara Zor-El, a.k.a. Supergirl, in the series’ first season. Benanti’s portrayal of Alura, who was a powerful and loving figure, added depth to the show and played a significant role in the development of Kara’s character. Her performance was praised for its emotional depth and gravitas, and she quickly became a fan favorite on the show.
Despite her success in the role, Benanti left Supergirl after season one, with the character being recast for the following seasons. However, her contributions to the show were highly regarded, and her performance remains a memorable part of the series’ early days.
Nashville: A Country Music Drama
Another significant television project that Laura Benanti was a part of was the hit country music drama Nashville. Benanti joined the cast in 2015, playing the role of Sadie Stone, a famous country singer who becomes romantically involved with one of the show’s lead characters, Rayna Jaymes (played by Connie Britton). Benanti’s performance in the role earned her praise for her ability to portray a complex character who navigates the challenges of love, fame, and personal struggles.
Benanti’s time on Nashville was marked by her stellar singing performances, which showcased her vocal talents and allowed her to connect with the country music community. Her role on the show demonstrated her ability to seamlessly blend her Broadway background with her television acting skills, cementing her as a well-rounded performer with a wide range of capabilities.
Other Notable Television Appearances
Beyond Supergirl and Nashville, Laura Benanti has appeared in numerous other television projects, demonstrating her ability to adapt to different genres. She made guest appearances on popular shows such as Nurse Jackie, Royal Pains, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, and The Good Wife. Her work in these shows often showcased her ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles, earning her a reputation as a versatile actress.
Benanti’s voice also found a home in the animated world, as she voiced characters in Family Guy and Bob’s Burgers, two of the most popular animated series on television. Her voice acting added another dimension to her already impressive body of work, proving her talent extends beyond the stage and screen.
Film: A Few Memorable Roles
While Laura Benanti is best known for her stage and television work, she has also made several notable appearances in films. She had a supporting role in the 2016 film Bad Moms, which starred Mila Kunis, Kristen Bell, and Kathryn Hahn. Benanti played the role of Gwendolyn, one of the “mean moms” who makes life difficult for the main characters. Her comedic timing and sharp wit made her a standout in the ensemble cast.
In addition, Benanti appeared in The Traitor (2019), a historical drama based on the true story of Tommaso Buscetta, a Sicilian Mafia informant. Benanti’s role in the film was a departure from her usual comedic fare, allowing her to explore more dramatic material. While her filmography remains relatively sparse compared to her extensive television and theater work, her performances in both Bad Moms and The Traitor proved her ability to navigate various genres.
Personal Life and Advocacy
In addition to her impressive professional achievements, Laura Benanti is also known for her advocacy work and personal commitment to various causes. She has used her platform to speak out on issues such as women’s rights, mental health, and the importance of supporting the arts. She is a vocal advocate for Broadway and live theater, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely impacted the entertainment industry. Benanti has also been open about her own struggles with body image and self-esteem, using her experiences to inspire others to embrace their authentic selves.
Conclusion
So, what has Laura Benanti been in? The answer is: a lot. From her Tony Award-nominated performances on Broadway to her memorable television roles in Supergirl, Nashville, and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Laura Benanti has demonstrated a remarkable range as an actress. Her ability to seamlessly transition between musical theater, television, and film has made her one of the most respected performers of her generation. Whether she’s playing a strong, emotional character or making audiences laugh with her comedic timing, Benanti’s work continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world. With her talent, passion, and advocacy for important causes, Laura Benanti is sure to remain a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for years to come.
