Marlee Matlin, a groundbreaking deaf American actress and activist, has shattered barriers in Hollywood since winning an Oscar at 21 for Children of a Lesser God. From *The West Wing* to *Euphoria*, her powerful performances and advocacy for the deaf community have inspired generations. This article covers her age, net worth, biography, career highlights, family, relationships, and more, celebrating her enduring legacy of resilience and representation.
Who is Marlee Matlin?
Marlee Beth Matlin is an Academy Award-winning deaf actress, producer, and activist, best known for her role in *Children of a Lesser God* (1986), making her the youngest Best Actress Oscar winner at 21. At 60 years old, she’s starred in *The West Wing*, *Switched at Birth*, and *Euphoria*, earning 4 Emmy nominations. Her net worth is estimated at $10 million, from acting, producing, and advocacy. A National Association of the Deaf endorser, Marlee’s quote, “Silence is the last thing the world will ever hear from me,” defines her trailblazing spirit.
Here’s a quick look at Marlee’s key details.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marlee Beth Matlin |
| Date of Birth | August 24, 1965 |
| Place of Birth | Morton Grove, Illinois, USA |
| Age (2025) | 60 years old |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5 feet 2 inches (1.57 meters) |
| Weight | 115 pounds (52 kg) |
| Measurements | 34-28-35 |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Religion | Jewish |
| Profession | Actress, Producer, Activist |
| Net Worth | ~$10,000,000 USD |
| Career Start | 1986 |
| Hobbies | Advocacy, writing, family time |
| Relationship Status | Married to Kevin Grandalski |
| Family | Husband: Kevin Grandalski (married 1993); Children: 4 (Brandon, Isabelle, Daniel, Joseph); Parents: Donald and Libby Matlin |
| Husband | Kevin Grandalski (married 1993) |
Marlee’s barrier-breaking career and advocacy have redefined representation in media.
Early Life and Background
Marlee Matlin was born on August 24, 1965, in Morton Grove, Illinois. At 60 in 2025, she was born deaf at 18 months, the only deaf member of her family. Raised by parents Donald (auto salesman) and Libby Matlin, she performed at age 7 in Chicago Children’s Theater. Her early passion led to her debut in *Children of a Lesser God* at 21, discovered by Henry Winkler. See more on activists like Amy Robach.
Career Journey
Marlee’s breakthrough was *Children of a Lesser God* (1986), winning Best Actress Oscar and Golden Globe. She starred in *Walker* (1987), *The West Wing* as Joey Lucas (1999–2006, Emmy-nominated), *Switched at Birth* (2011–2017, Emmy-nominated), and *Euphoria* as Leslie Bennett (2021–present, Gotham-nominated). She produced *CODA* (2021, Oscar for Best Picture) and voiced in *Stranger Things* (2019).
Her 2022 *CODA* work earned her a Producers Guild Award. She signed the National Anthem at Super Bowl XLI (2007).
Here are her career highlights:
- Won Oscar for *Children of a Lesser God* (1986) at age 21.
- 4 Emmy nominations for *The West Wing* and *Switched at Birth*.
- Produced Oscar-winning *CODA* (2021).
- Golden Globe for *Children of a Lesser God* (1987).
- Signed National Anthem at Super Bowl XLI (2007).
Marlee’s roles champion deaf representation.
Physical Appearance and Style
Marlee is 5 feet 2 inches (1.57 meters) tall and weighs 115 pounds (52 kg). Her measurements are 34-28-35, with a slim build, brown eyes, and dark brown hair. Her expressive face and confident presence define her iconic look.
Her style is elegant—red carpet gowns for events or casual chic for advocacy, always poised.
Personal Life and Hobbies
Marlee married Burbank police officer Kevin Grandalski in 1993, meeting on *Reasonable Doubts* set. They have four children: Brandon (1996), Isabelle (1998), Daniel (2002), Joseph (2005). She’s close to her parents and advocates for deaf rights. Hobbies include writing, family time, and philanthropy.
Her hobbies include:
- Writing children’s books and memoirs.
- Family outings with her four kids.
- Advocacy for deaf education.
Her family and activism are her passions.
Net Worth and Achievements
Marlee’s net worth is $10 million, from acting ($6M), producing ($2M), and endorsements ($2M). Achievements include Oscar (1987), Golden Globe (1987), 4 Emmys, Producers Guild Award for *CODA* (2022), and Screen Actors Guild for *CODA* cast (2022). She’s endorsed the National Association of the Deaf and performed at Super Bowl.
Social Media Presence
Marlee shares advocacy and family moments online. Follow her here:
- Instagram: @marlee_matlin – Advocacy and life updates.
- X: @MarleeMatlin – Deaf rights thoughts.
- Facebook: Marlee Matlin – Career highlights.
- IMDb: Profile – Film/TV credits.
Why is Marlee Matlin Popular?
Marlee’s popularity comes from her Oscar win as the youngest deaf actress, barrier-breaking roles, and activism. Her resilience inspires deaf and hearing audiences.
Future Goals
Marlee plans more producing, deaf advocacy, and writing. She aims to increase representation. Explore similar activists like Demi Lovato.
Fun Facts About Marlee
- Only deaf Best Actress Oscar winner (1987).
- Deaf since 18 months; only deaf family member.
- Discovered by Henry Winkler at age 21.
- Signed National Anthem at Super Bowl XLI (2007).
- Produced Oscar-winning *CODA* (2021).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How old is Marlee Matlin?
She’s 60 years old, born on August 24, 1965.
How tall is Marlee Matlin?
Marlee is 5 feet 2 inches (1.57 meters) tall.
What is Marlee Matlin’s net worth?
Her net worth is about $10,000,000 USD.
Where was Marlee Matlin born?
She was born in Morton Grove, Illinois.
What are Marlee Matlin’s hobbies?
Advocacy, writing, family time.
What has Marlee Matlin been in?
*Children of a Lesser God*, *The West Wing*, *Switched at Birth*, *Euphoria*, *CODA* (producer).
Does Marlee Matlin have a husband or family?
Married to Kevin Grandalski (1993); 4 children: Brandon, Isabelle, Daniel, Joseph; parents Donald and Libby.
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