Uma Thurman is an American actress, producer, and former model, best known for her work in films directed by Quentin Tarantino, particularly Pulp Fiction (1994) and Kill Bill: Volume 1 & 2 (2003, 2004). She has had a diverse career spanning action, drama, and comedy, making her one of Hollywood’s most recognizable stars.
Early Life & Background
- Full Name: Uma Karuna Thurman
- Born: April 29, 1970
- Birthplace: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Parents:
- Robert Thurman – a Buddhist scholar and writer
- Nena von Schlebrügge – a former model
- Heritage: Thurman has a multicultural background with Swedish, German, and Danish ancestry.
Career Highlights
Early Career (1980s–1990s)
- Started as a fashion model before transitioning to acting.
- Breakout role in Dangerous Liaisons (1988).
- Gained widespread recognition as Mia Wallace in Pulp Fiction (1994), earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
2000s & Tarantino Collaborations
- Iconic role as The Bride in Kill Bill: Volume 1 & 2, performing many of her own stunts and earning massive critical acclaim.
- Appeared in films like Gattaca (1997), Batman & Robin (1997, as Poison Ivy), and The Truth About Cats & Dogs (1996).
Recent Work (2010s–Present)
- Starred in TV series Imposters (2017) and Netflix’s Chambers (2019).
- Appeared in Hollywood Stargirl (2022) and had a role in the The Old Guard 2 (upcoming).
- Active in Broadway and indie films.
Personal Life
- Was married to actors Gary Oldman (1990–1992) and Ethan Hawke (1998–2005), with whom she has two children, including actress Maya Hawke (Stranger Things).
Legacy & Impact
Uma Thurman is celebrated for her versatility, iconic film roles, and collaborations with directors like Quentin Tarantino. Her portrayal of strong, complex female characters has made her a major figure in Hollywood.