Elizabeth Reaser, born Elizabeth Ann Reaser on July 2, 1975, in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, is an accomplished American actress known for her work in film, television, and stage. She is the middle child among three sisters and grew up in a family where her mother, Karen Davidson, was a homemaker, and her father, John Reaser, was an attorney turned restaurateur turned substitute teacher.

Her mother later married billionaire businessman William Davidson. Reaser attended the Academy of the Sacred Heart in Bloomfield Hills and Avondale High School in Auburn Hills, graduating in 1993. She briefly attended Oakland University before transferring to the Juilliard School's Drama Division, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1999.

Her career began with a guest appearance on the daytime drama series "Guiding Light" and she soon landed roles in various television series such as "Saved," "Grey's Anatomy," "The Good Wife," "True Detective," and "The Handmaid's Tale."

She is best known for her portrayal of Esme Cullen in the "Twilight" film series, which includes "Twilight," "New Moon," "Eclipse," and both parts of "Breaking Dawn." Her performance in "Sweet Land" earned her a Jury Award at the Newport Beach Film Festival and a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead.

Elizabeth Reaser is passionate about environmental causes and has been involved in various charitable organizations. She married Bruce Gilbert in August 2023. Reaser's lifestyle includes a love for music, as she is also a talented pianist.