Penny Marshall was an American actress and director, best known for her role as Laverne DeFazio on the hit TV show Laverne & Shirley, as well as her work in films like Big and A League of Their Own. She was born on October 15, 1943, in Manhattan, New York City.
Personal and Family Life
Penny Marshall, whose birth name was Carole Penny Marshall, grew up in a creative family. Her mother, Marjorie, was a tap dance teacher, and her father, Anthony, was an industrial film director. She had two siblings, Garry and Ronny, both of whom worked in the entertainment industry. Penny was known for her adventurous spirit during childhood, sneaking into movies and engaging in mischievous activities.
Career Highlights
Penny started her career in television and gained popularity after appearing as Myrna on The Odd Couple. She partnered with her friend Cindy Williams to create memorable performances in Laverne & Shirley, which became a cultural hit in the late 1970s. After the success of the show, Penny transitioned to directing, helming hit films like Jumpin’ Jack Flash, Big, and A League of Their Own, showcasing her versatile talent in the industry.
Death and Legacy
Penny Marshall passed away on December 17, 2018, due to complications from diabetes at the age of 75. Her legacy lives on through her memorable characters on television and her significant contributions to cinema, particularly in promoting female narratives in Hollywood. Many fans remember her not just for her work, but also for her lively personality and love for the arts.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Hocus Pocus | 1993-07-16 | The Master’s Wife (uncredited) |
| Looking for Comedy in the Muslim World | 2006-01-20 | Penny Marshall |
| Alice Upside Down | 2007-10-06 | Mrs. Plotkin |
| The Couple Takes a Wife | 1972-12-05 | Paula |
| Let’s Switch! | 1975-01-07 | Alice Wright |
| Blonde Ambition | 2007-12-21 | Bolo Executive |
| The Feminist and the Fuzz | 1971-01-26 | Liberation Lady |
| The Savage Seven | 1968-05-01 | Tina |
| Scooby-Doo! and KISS: Rock and Roll Mystery | 2015-07-10 | The Elder (voice) |
| Staten Island Summer | 2015-06-30 | Dolores |
| The Hard Way | 1991-03-08 | Angie |
| Mother’s Day | 2016-04-28 | Opening Mom Narrator (voice) |
| Jumpin’ Jack Flash | 1986-05-09 | Director |
| Big | 1988-06-03 | Director |
| A League of Their Own | 1992-07-01 | Director |
| Laverne & Shirley | 1976-01-27 | Laverne DeFazio |
| The Odd Couple | 1970-09-24 | Myrna |