Shirley MacLaine, born Shirley MacLean Beaty on April 24, 1934, in Richmond, Virginia, is an American actress and author. She comes from a family with a strong background in the arts, with her father, Ira Owens Beaty, being a professor of psychology and her mother, Kathlyn Corinne, a drama teacher.

Her younger brother is the renowned actor Warren Beatty. Shirley began her career in the entertainment industry as a dancer on Broadway, where she gained recognition for her performances in musicals such as Me and Juliet and The Pajama Game. Her big break in Hollywood came when she was discovered by a film producer and cast in Alfred Hitchcock's The Trouble with Harry in 1955, which earned her the Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year.

Her career quickly took off, and she became known for her versatility and talent in a wide range of roles. She starred in films such as Around the World in 80 Days, Some Came Running, and The Apartment, the latter of which earned her an Academy Award nomination. Her performance in the romantic comedy Irma la Douce also garnered critical acclaim and another Academy Award nomination.

Throughout her career, Shirley has been nominated for six Academy Awards, winning the Best Actress award for her role in Terms of Endearment in 1983. She has also received numerous other accolades, including an Emmy Award, two BAFTA Awards, six Golden Globe Awards, two Volpi Cups, and two Silver Bears.

In addition to her film career, she has made significant contributions to television, starring in the sitcom Shirley's World and the biopic television film Coco Chanel, for which she received nominations for a Primetime Emmy Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and a Golden Globe Award.

Her personal life has been the subject of much media attention over the years. She was married to Steve Parker from 1954 to 1982, and they have a daughter named Sachi Parker. She has been open about her belief in reincarnation and spirituality, which she has explored in several of her books. She has written numerous autobiographical works, including the best-selling memoir Out on a Limb, which delves into her spiritual journey and experiences in Hollywood.

She attributes her longevity and good health to her early dance training, which taught her discipline and a love for music. She enjoys spending time with her friends and animals at her ranch in New Mexico, where she finds peace and contentment.

Throughout her illustrious career, she has appeared in over 60 films, showcasing her remarkable range and talent. Some of her most notable films include The Turning Point, Being There, Madame Sousatzka, Steel Magnolias, Postcards from the Edge, In Her Shoes, Bernie, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, Elsa & Fred, and Noelle.

Her performances in these films have left a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike, solidifying her status as a Hollywood legend.