Swoosie Kurtz is a legendary American actress known for her exceptional versatility and captivating performances across film, television, and theater. Born on September 6, 1944, in Omaha, Nebraska, she has become one of Hollywood’s most respected performers, with a career spanning more than five decades. Her unique name, inspired by her father’s World War II bomber “The Swoose,” reflects her distinctive personality and bold spirit that have defined her journey in the entertainment industry.
With two Tony Awards, one Primetime Emmy, and multiple nominations to her credit, Swoosie Kurtz has left an indelible mark on American entertainment. From her Broadway triumphs in Fifth of July and The House of Blue Leaves to her memorable television roles in Sisters, Pushing Daisies, and Mike & Molly, she continues to be celebrated for her range, charisma, and timeless talent.
Key Fact
| Key Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Swoosie Trust Kurtz |
| Birth Date | September 6, 1944 |
| Birth Place | Omaha, Nebraska, USA |
| Age | 81 years old (as of 2025) |
| Height | 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 m) |
| Family Background | Daughter of author Margaret “Margo” Rogers and Colonel Frank Allen Kurtz Jr., WWII pilot |
Early Life of Swoosie Kurtz
Swoosie Kurtz was born on September 6, 1944, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Margaret “Margo” Rogers, a writer, and Frank Allen Kurtz Jr., a decorated U.S. Air Force Colonel and World War II pilot. Her unusual name, “Swoosie,” was inspired by The Swoose, her father’s B-17D bomber—a symbol of resilience and courage that perfectly mirrors her own spirit. Growing up as an only child in a military family, she moved across eight different states, experiencing a dynamic upbringing that broadened her worldview and sparked her creativity from a young age.
Her passion for performing emerged early, nurtured by her mother’s artistic influence and her father’s adventurous legacy. Swoosie pursued drama at the University of Southern California and later refined her craft at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA). These formative years equipped her with a strong foundation in theater and performance, paving the way for a remarkable career that would span stage, screen, and television.
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Full name/Real name:
Swoosie Trust Kurtz
Birth date/Birth place:
Born on September 6, 1944, in Omaha, Nebraska, USA.
Family background:
She is the only child of author Margaret “Margo” Rogers and Air Force Colonel Frank Allen Kurtz Jr., a decorated World War II bomber pilot. Her unique first name “Swoosie” derives from the B-17D Flying Fortress bomber her father piloted, named “The Swoose.”
School/University:
She majored in drama at the University of Southern California and further studied at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.
Career Journey of Swoosie Kurtz
Swoosie Kurtz’s career journey is a testament to her versatility, passion, and unmatched talent across stage, television, and film. She began her professional acting career on Broadway in 1975, quickly earning acclaim for her natural ability to embody complex characters. Her breakthrough came in 1981 when she won her first Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play for Fifth of July. Just a few years later, she solidified her Broadway legacy by earning a second Tony Award for The House of Blue Leaves (1986), establishing herself as one of the most respected performers in American theater.
The peak years of Swoosie Kurtz’s career spanned the 1980s through the 2000s, where she successfully transitioned into television and film. On the big screen, she delivered memorable performances in “Dangerous Liaisons” (1988), “Liar Liar” (1997), and “The Irishman” (2019). On television, she became a household name through roles in “Sisters” (1991–1996), “Pushing Daisies” (2007–2009), and “Mike & Molly” (2010–2016). Her work earned her eight Emmy nominations, including a Primetime Emmy Award win in 1990 for Carol and Company. With a career spanning over five decades, Swoosie Kurtz remains one of Hollywood’s most enduring and respected character actresses, celebrated for her grace, depth, and longevity in the entertainment industry.
Physical Appearance of Swoosie Kurtz
Age:
Swoosie Kurtz is 81 years old as of 2025.
Height:
She is 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 meters) tall.
Weight:
54 kg
Body measurement:
34-24-35 in (86-61-89 cm)
Physical attributes:
Swoosie Kurtz has a slender build and reddish-blond hair. She is known for her distinctive presence both on stage and screen, carrying a poised and versatile appearance suited for character roles.
Major Achievements of Swoosie Kurtz
Throughout her illustrious career, Swoosie Kurtz has earned numerous accolades that highlight her remarkable contributions to stage and screen. She is a two-time Tony Award winner, honored for her performances in Fifth of July (1981) and The House of Blue Leaves (1986), both of which showcased her exceptional talent in live theater. In addition, she has received five Tony nominations in total, cementing her reputation as one of Broadway’s most accomplished actresses. Her achievements extend to television, where she has been nominated for eight Primetime Emmy Awards, winning one in 1990 for Carol and Company, proving her versatility across genres and mediums.
Beyond awards, Swoosie Kurtz’s enduring influence lies in her ability to balance prestige with popular appeal. She has captivated audiences with iconic performances in “Sisters,” “Huff,” “Pushing Daisies,” and “Mike & Molly,” earning praise for her comedic timing and emotional depth. Her film work in “Dangerous Liaisons,” “Liar Liar,” and “The Irishman” further showcases her range and staying power in Hollywood. With decades of critical acclaim and a lasting legacy in American entertainment, Swoosie Kurtz’s major achievements stand as a testament to her dedication, talent, and timeless artistry.
Personal Life of Swoosie Kurtz
Family:
Swoosie Kurtz is the only child of Margaret “Margo” Rogers, an author, and Frank Allen Kurtz Jr., a decorated U.S. Air Force colonel and World War II pilot.
Nationality:
She is American.
Religion:
Christianity
Ethnicity:
Swoosie Kurtz is of European-American descent.
Marital status/Relationship:
Public details about her current marital status or relationships are scarce, and she has no publicly known children.
Net worth:
between $4 million and $50 million,
Social media presence:
Swoosie Kurtz has a limited or low-profile presence on major social media platforms, focusing more on her acting career than public social media engagement.
| Platform | Account Name | URL | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| @theswoosiekurtz | https://www.instagram.com/theswoosiekurtz/ | Active with personal posts | |
| Swoosie Kurtz | https://www.facebook.com/p/Swoosie-Kurtz-100068711785558/ | Limited activity and followers |
Interesting Facts About Swoosie Kurtz
- Unique Name Origin: Her first name “Swoosie” comes from The Swoose, a B-17D bomber flown by her father during World War II.
- Award-Winning Actress: She has won two Tony Awards and one Emmy Award, along with multiple nominations across her career.
- Broadway Icon: Swoosie was part of the original Broadway casts of several hit productions, earning critical acclaim for her stage performances.
- Television Favorite: She gained widespread recognition for her roles in “Sisters,” “Huff,” “Pushing Daisies,” and “Mike & Molly.”
- Longevity in Hollywood: With a career spanning over five decades, Swoosie Kurtz remains one of the most respected and versatile actresses in American entertainment.
Conclusion of Swoosie Kurtz
Swoosie Kurtz stands as one of the most accomplished and enduring actresses in American entertainment. Known for her remarkable versatility across film, television, and theater. From her Tony Award-winning performances on Broadway to her memorable television roles in Sisters, Pushing Daisies, and Mike & Molly, Swoosie has proven her ability to adapt, evolve, and captivate audiences across generations. Her deep emotional range, distinctive voice, and sharp comedic timing have made her a beloved figure both on stage and on screen.
With a career spanning more than five decades, Swoosie Kurtz’s legacy is defined by artistic excellence, professionalism, and a genuine passion for storytelling. Whether performing in an intimate theater or on a global streaming platform, she continues to inspire new generations of performers. Her contributions have not only shaped modern American acting but also reaffirmed her place among the most respected character actresses in Hollywood history.
FAQs about Swoosie Kurtz
1. Who is Swoosie Kurtz?
Swoosie Kurtz is an American actress known for her award-winning work in film, television, and theater, including roles in Sisters and Mike & Molly.
2. When and where was Swoosie Kurtz born?
She was born on September 6, 1944, in Omaha, Nebraska, USA.
3. What are some of Swoosie Kurtz’s most notable achievements?
She has won two Tony Awards and one Emmy Award, earning acclaim for her performances on Broadway and television.
4. What is the origin of Swoosie Kurtz’s unique name?
Her name “Swoosie” was inspired by The Swoose, a World War II bomber flown by her father, Colonel Frank Kurtz.
5. Is Swoosie Kurtz still active in acting?
Yes, Swoosie Kurtz remains active, continuing to appear in television and film projects, showcasing her timeless talent and versatility.
