Full Name: Toni Collette Galafassi
Born: November 1, 1972
Birthplace: Sydney, Australia
Occupation: Actress, Producer, Singer
Years Active: 1990–present
Early Life & Background
Toni Collette was born in Sydney, Australia, and grew up in the suburbs of Blacktown. She developed an early passion for acting and attended the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA). Her breakout came in Australian theater and television before she transitioned to international stardom.
Career Highlights
Breakthrough & Early Success
- “Muriel’s Wedding” (1994) – Played Muriel Heslop in this cult classic, earning a Golden Globe nomination and establishing herself as a leading actress.
- “The Sixth Sense” (1999) – Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role as the mother of a boy who sees ghosts.
Diverse Film Roles
- “About a Boy” (2002) – Co-starred alongside Hugh Grant.
- “Little Miss Sunshine” (2006) – Played the matriarch in this indie hit, earning a BAFTA and SAG Award nomination.
- “Hereditary” (2018) – Delivered a critically acclaimed horror performance, often considered one of the best of the genre.
- “Knives Out” (2019) – Played Joni Thrombey in the ensemble mystery film.
Television Success
- “United States of Tara” (2009–2011) – Played a woman with dissociative identity disorder, winning a Primetime Emmy Award and a Golden Globe.
- “The Staircase” (2022) – Starred as Kathleen Peterson in the HBO crime drama.
Music & Other Work
Collette has also dabbled in music, releasing an album with her band Toni Collette & The Finish in 2006. She is also a producer and has worked on several projects behind the scenes.
Personal Life
She was married to musician Dave Galafassi from 2003 to 2022, and they have two children. She is passionate about environmental causes and philanthropy.
Awards & Recognition
- Academy Award Nomination (The Sixth Sense)
- Golden Globe Win (United States of Tara)
- Primetime Emmy Award Win (United States of Tara)
- BAFTA & SAG Nominations
Legacy
Toni Collette is widely respected for her versatility, moving seamlessly between comedy, drama, horror, and thriller genres. Her ability to fully embody complex characters has made her one of the most celebrated actresses of her generation.
