Kate Mulgrew is an American actress and author known for her remarkable contributions to television, film, and theater. She was born on April 29, 1955, in Dubuque, Iowa, into a large Irish Catholic family. She was the second of eight children, and her upbringing was filled with creativity and discipline.

Her mother, Joan, was an artist, and her father, Thomas, was a contractor. She showed an early interest in acting and left Iowa at the age of 17 to study at the Stella Adler Conservatory in New York City, which was affiliated with New York University. She worked as a waitress to support herself while pursuing her passion for acting.

Her career began in the 1970s when she gained attention for her role as Mary Ryan in the soap opera "Ryan's Hope." She became a household name with her portrayal of Captain Kathryn Janeway in the television series "Star Trek: Voyager," making history as the first female captain to lead a Star Trek series. 

Her performance earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. She also starred in the Netflix series "Orange Is the New Black" as Galina "Red" Reznikov, a role that showcased her versatility and earned her several award nominations. She has appeared in numerous films, including "Throw Momma from the Train," "Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins," and "Lovespell." 

Her theater work includes performances in "Tea at Five," where she portrayed Katharine Hepburn, and other stage productions that highlight her talent and dedication to her craft.

In her personal life, Kate Mulgrew has faced both joys and challenges. She was married twice, first to Robert H. Egan, with whom she has two sons, and later to Tim Hagan, a politician. Both marriages ended in divorce. She also reunited with a daughter she had placed for adoption when she was a young actress, a deeply personal and emotional experience that she has spoken about openly. 

Her memoir, "Born with Teeth," provides insight into her life, career, and the struggles she has overcome.

Her lifestyle reflects her resilience, intelligence, and passion for the arts. She is known for her strong work ethic and her ability to balance her professional achievements with her personal growth.

She has been an advocate for Alzheimer's research, inspired by her mother's battle with the disease, and has served on the Alzheimer's Association National Advisory Council. She is also a supporter of women's rights and has used her platform to inspire and empower others.

Throughout her career, she has received numerous awards and accolades, including a Saturn Award for her role in "Star Trek: Voyager" and a Critics' Choice Award for her performance in "Orange Is the New Black." She has also been nominated for Golden Globe and Emmy Awards, further cementing her legacy as a talented and influential actress.