Bernadette Peters, born Bernadette Lazzara on February 28, 1948, in Queens, New York City, is an American actress and singer. She was the youngest of three children in an Italian-American family, with her father driving a bread delivery truck and her mother, Marguerite, putting her on television shows like "Juvenile Jury" at the age of three and a half.

Bernadette Peters began her career as a child actress, obtaining her Actors Equity Card at age nine and making her professional stage debut in "This Is Goggle" in 1958. She later appeared on television shows such as "The Muppet Show" and "The Carol Burnett Show," and in films like "Silent Movie" (1976), "The Jerk" (1979), and "Pennies from Heaven" (1981), for which she won a Golden Globe Award.

She is particularly noted for her work on Broadway, where she has starred in musicals like "Sunday in the Park with George," "Into the Woods," "Annie Get Your Gun," and "Hello, Dolly!".

She has received seven Tony Award nominations, winning two, and nine Drama Desk Award nominations, winning three. She has also recorded six solo albums and performs regularly in her own solo concert act. Her career spans over six decades, and she continues to act in films and television shows, including "Mozart in the Jungle" and "Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist".

Her lifestyle reflects her dedication to her craft and her love for performing. She is known for her disciplined work ethic and her commitment to her fans. She is also a devoted advocate for animal welfare and supports various animal rescue organizations and charities.

Her personal life includes her marriage to Michael Wittenberg, which lasted until his death in 2005.