Mary Louise Wilson was born on November 12, 1931, in New Haven, Connecticut, and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. She is an American actress, singer, and comedian known for her role in the musical "Grey Gardens," where she played Edith Bouvier Beale, a performance that earned her a Tony Award.

Her career spans over six decades, with her Broadway debut in "Hot Spot" in 1963. She has appeared in numerous stage productions, including "Flora, The Red Menace," "Promises, Promises," and "The Women," among others.

Her filmography includes roles in movies such as "Klute," "Up the Sandbox," "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas," and "Pet Sematary."

She has also made appearances on television shows like "One Day at a Time," "Maude," and "Lou Grant." Her versatility as an actress is evident in her ability to transition seamlessly between stage and screen roles.

In her personal life, Mary Louise Wilson was married to actor Alfred Cibelli from 1965 to 1968. She has been open about her experiences in the entertainment industry, sharing anecdotes and insights in her memoir, "My First Hundred Years in Show Business."

Throughout her career, she has received numerous accolades, including the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding One-Person Show for "Full Gallop" and the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for "Grey Gardens."

Her contributions to the arts have been recognized and celebrated, cementing her legacy as a talented and dedicated performer.