Actress Joanna Cassidy turns 79
Despite the immense body of work she has done since the 1970’s, her signature role remains that of the exotic android/replicant Zhora Salome in the 1982 sci-fi classic “Blade Runner”
Actress Joanna Cassidy turns 79
Joanna Cassidy, born Joanna Virginia Caskey on August 2, 1945, in Haddonfield, New Jersey, grew up in an artistic family. Her mother was an artist, and her father was a textile manufacturer. This creative environment undoubtedly influenced her interest in the arts from a young age. Cassidy attended Haddonfield Memorial High School, where she was involved in various school activities, including the arts.
Cassidy began her career as a model, a common starting point for many aspiring actors. She moved to San Francisco to study art at Syracuse University, where she continued modeling to support herself. Her striking looks and vibrant personality soon led her to opportunities in the acting world.
Her first significant acting role came in the early 1970s with a part in the comedy film “Bullitt” (1968). However, it was her move to Los Angeles in 1973 that truly kickstarted her acting career. Cassidy’s early work included guest appearances on popular TV series such as “Mission: Impossible” and “Starsky & Hutch.”
Cassidy’s breakthrough role came in 1982 when she played the replicant Zhora in Ridley Scott’s sci-fi classic “Blade Runner.” Her performance as the exotic and dangerous replicant garnered critical acclaim and significantly raised her profile in Hollywood. This role remains one of the most iconic in her career, showcasing her ability to blend strength and vulnerability.
Following “Blade Runner,” Cassidy continued to build an impressive resume with roles in both film and television including the series “Dallas” and “Falcon Crest.”. She also starred alongside Eddie Murphy in the comedy “The Golden Child” (1986) and appeared in the film “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” (1988), where she played Dolores.
In the 1990s and 2000s, Cassidy continued to enjoy a steady career, appearing in a variety of television shows and films. Notably, she had a recurring role on the HBO series “Six Feet Under” (2001-2005) as Margaret Chenowith, for which she received widespread praise. Her performance added depth to the already critically acclaimed series and demonstrated her versatility as an actress.
Cassidy’s later work includes guest roles on popular TV series like “Boston Legal,” “Desperate Housewives,” and “Body of Proof,” where she played the recurring character of Joan Hunt, the protagonist’s mother. Her ability to transition seamlessly between film and television roles has made her a respected figure in the industry.
Joanna Cassidy was married to Dr. Kennard C. Kobrin from 1964 until their divorce in 1974. The couple had two children together, a son and a daughter. Cassidy has often spoken about the challenges of balancing her career with motherhood, emphasizing the importance of family in her life.
Beyond her acting career, Cassidy is known for her passion for photography and gardening. Her artistic inclinations extend to these hobbies, reflecting the creative environment she was raised in. Cassidy is also an advocate for animal rights and environmental causes, using her platform to promote awareness and change.
Look back at these two iconic scenes between Joanna Cassidy’s character Zhora Salome and Harrison Ford in the 1982 movie “Blade Runner”
Watch more movies related videos
Images and photographs can be from different ranges of sources such as Pinterest, Tumblr etc. except when/where noted. If you are the copyright holder and would like them removed or credited, please get in touch.
