Who is Marlo Thomas?

Marlo Thomas is an American actress, producer, and social activist. She is best known for her role as Ann Marie in the sitcom That Girl, for which she won a Golden Globe Award. Thomas has also starred in numerous other television shows and films, and she has produced and directed several documentaries. She is also a vocal advocate for social causes, particularly those related to women's rights and children's health.

Marlo Thomas was born on November 21, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan. Her father, Danny Thomas, was a Lebanese-American comedian and singer, and her mother, Rose Marie Cassaniti, was an Italian-American actress. Thomas attended Marymount High School in Los Angeles, California, and she later studied acting at the Actors Studio in New York City.

Thomas began her acting career in the early 1960s, appearing in small roles in television shows and films. In 1966, she landed the lead role in That Girl, which became a huge hit. The show ran for five seasons, and Thomas won a Golden Globe Award for her performance in 1967. After That Girl ended, Thomas continued to star in numerous other television shows and films, including Free to Be... You and Me (1974), The Other Side of the Mountain (1975), and The Marlo Thomas Show (1976-1978).

In addition to her acting career, Thomas is also a vocal advocate for social causes. She is a co-founder of the Ms. Foundation for Women, which supports women's rights and equality. She is also a board member of the National Women's Political Caucus and the Children's Health Fund. Thomas has received numerous awards for her work in social activism, including the Eleanor Roosevelt Humanitarian Award and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Name	Marlo Thomas
Occupation	Actress, producer, and social activist
Birth Date	November 21, 1937
Birth Place	Detroit, Michigan
Alma mater	Marymount High School, Actors Studio
Known for	That Girl, Free to Be... You and Me, The Other Side of the Mountain
Awards	Golden Globe Award, Eleanor Roosevelt Humanitarian Award, Presidential Medal of Freedom

Marlo Thomas

Marlo Thomas is an American actress, producer, and social activist who has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and social causes. Six key aspects that highlight her multifaceted career and impact include:

Actress: Thomas is best known for her iconic role as Ann Marie in the sitcom "That Girl," for which she won a Golden Globe Award.
Producer: She has produced numerous documentaries and television shows, including the groundbreaking "Free to Be... You and Me."
Activist: Thomas is a passionate advocate for social justice, particularly women's rights and children's health.
Co-founder: She co-founded the Ms. Foundation for Women, which supports women's equality and empowerment.
Author: Thomas has written several books, including the bestselling memoir "Growing Up Laughing."
Honoree: She has received numerous awards for her work, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

These key aspects showcase Marlo Thomas's versatility and dedication to using her platform for positive change. As an actress, she has entertained audiences for decades, while as a producer, she has created thought-provoking content that addresses important social issues. Her activism and philanthropy have made a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals, particularly women and children. Marlo Thomas is a true icon who continues to inspire and make a meaningful impact on society.

1. Actress

Marlo Thomas's role as Ann Marie in the sitcom "That Girl" was a groundbreaking moment in television history. The show, which aired from 1966 to 1971, was one of the first to feature a single, independent woman as the main character. Thomas's portrayal of Ann Marie was both relatable and aspirational, and it helped to change the way that women were portrayed on television.

Ann Marie was not the typical female character on television at the time. She was intelligent, independent, and ambitious, and she refused to be defined by her relationships with men. Thomas's portrayal of Ann Marie helped to break down stereotypes and pave the way for more complex and realistic female characters on television.
"That Girl" aired during a time of great social change in the United States. The show's portrayal of an independent, working woman reflected the changing roles of women in society. Thomas's performance as Ann Marie helped to normalize the idea of women pursuing their own careers and goals.
"That Girl" was a huge hit with audiences, and it had a significant impact on American culture. The show's theme song, "That Girl," became an anthem for young women, and Thomas's character became a role model for women of all ages. The show's legacy continues to this day, and it is still considered one of the most important sitcoms in television history.

Marlo Thomas's performance as Ann Marie in "That Girl" was a major turning point in her career. The role made her a star, and it helped to change the way that women were portrayed on television. Thomas's work on the show continues to inspire and empower women of all ages.

2. Producer

Marlo Thomas's work as a producer has been just as significant as her work as an actress. She has produced numerous documentaries and television shows that have tackled important social issues and helped to change the way that people think about the world.

"Free to Be... You and Me"
This groundbreaking children's television special aired in 1974 and featured a star-studded cast that included Thomas, Harry Belafonte, and Alan Alda. The special celebrated diversity and encouraged children to be themselves, regardless of their gender, race, or sexual orientation. "Free to Be... You and Me" was a huge success, and it has been credited with helping to change the way that children think about gender and identity.
"The Marlo Thomas Special"
This Emmy Award-winning television special aired in 1976 and featured Thomas interviewing a variety of guests, including Gloria Steinem, Betty Friedan, and Muhammad Ali. The special explored a range of social issues, including women's rights, race relations, and the Vietnam War. "The Marlo Thomas Special" was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to raise awareness of important social issues.
"Nobody's Child"
This made-for-television movie aired in 1986 and starred Thomas as a social worker who fights to protect a young boy from an abusive foster home. The movie was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to raise awareness of the issue of child abuse.
"The Other Side of the Mountain"
This 1975 film starred Thomas as a young woman who is paralyzed in a skiing accident. The film was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to change the way that people think about disability. Thomas received an Academy Award nomination for her performance in the film.

Marlo Thomas's work as a producer has had a significant impact on American culture. Her documentaries and television shows have tackled important social issues and helped to change the way that people think about the world. Thomas is a true pioneer in the entertainment industry, and her work continues to inspire and educate audiences of all ages.

3. Activist

Marlo Thomas's activism is deeply connected to her personal experiences and values. She has spoken out about her own struggles with infertility, which led her to become an advocate for women's reproductive rights. She has also been a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, and she has spoken out against discrimination and violence against transgender people.

Thomas's activism has had a significant impact on public policy. She was instrumental in the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment, which would have guaranteed equal rights for women under the law. She has also worked to improve access to healthcare for women and children, and she has been a strong advocate for gun control.

Thomas's activism is an important part of her legacy. She has used her platform to speak out for those who are marginalized and voiceless. She is a true champion for social justice, and her work has made a real difference in the lives of countless people.

4. Co-founder

Marlo Thomas's role as a co-founder of the Ms. Foundation for Women is a testament to her lifelong commitment to social justice. The Ms. Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports women's equality and empowerment through funding research, advocacy, and leadership development.

Mission: The Ms. Foundation's mission is to create a more just and equitable world for women and girls. The organization works to advance women's economic security, reproductive rights, and leadership opportunities.
Impact: The Ms. Foundation has a long history of supporting groundbreaking work on behalf of women and girls. The organization has funded research on the gender wage gap, violence against women, and the impact of poverty on women. The Ms. Foundation has also supported advocacy campaigns for paid family leave, affordable childcare, and equal pay for equal work.
Leadership: Marlo Thomas has served as the chair of the Ms. Foundation's board of directors since its inception. Under her leadership, the organization has grown into one of the leading supporters of women's equality in the United States.

Marlo Thomas's work with the Ms. Foundation for Women is a powerful example of her commitment to social change. The organization has made a significant impact on the lives of women and girls around the world, and Thomas has played a key role in its success.

5. Author

Marlo Thomas's work as an author is closely connected to her experiences as an actress, producer, and activist. Her books often draw on her personal life and her experiences in the entertainment industry and social justice movements.

Growing Up Laughing
Thomas's bestselling memoir, "Growing Up Laughing," was published in 2009. The book is a funny and heartwarming account of Thomas's childhood and her relationship with her famous father, Danny Thomas. The book provides insights into Thomas's early life and the values that shaped her.
The Right Words at the Right Time
This book is a collection of quotations and affirmations that Thomas has gathered over the years. The book is designed to provide inspiration and encouragement to readers.
It Ain't Over... Till It's Over
This book is a guide to aging gracefully and living a full life. Thomas shares her own experiences and insights on how to stay healthy, happy, and engaged as we get older.
Marlo Thomas and Friends: Thanks & Giving All Year Long
This book is a collection of essays and stories from Thomas and her friends about the importance of gratitude. The book is designed to inspire readers to practice gratitude in their own lives.

Marlo Thomas's books offer readers a unique glimpse into her life and her thoughts on a variety of topics. Her writing is honest, funny, and inspiring, and her books have touched the lives of many people.

6. Honoree

Marlo Thomas is a highly decorated actress, producer, and activist. Her work has been recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom. This award is the highest civilian honor in the United States, and it is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation. Thomas received the award in 2014 for her work as an actress, producer, and activist.

Thomas's work has had a profound impact on American culture. Her groundbreaking role as Ann Marie in the sitcom "That Girl" helped to change the way that women were portrayed on television. She has also produced numerous documentaries and television shows that have tackled important social issues, such as women's rights and children's health. Thomas is also a co-founder of the Ms. Foundation for Women, which supports women's equality and empowerment.

Thomas's work has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom. This award is a testament to her dedication to social justice and her commitment to making a difference in the world. Thomas is a true icon, and her work continues to inspire and empower people of all ages.

FAQs about Marlo Thomas

Marlo Thomas is an accomplished actress, producer, author, and social activist. Throughout her career, she has received numerous awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom. She is best known for her iconic role as Ann Marie in the sitcom "That Girl," and for her work as a producer of documentaries and television shows that tackle important social issues.

Question 1: What is Marlo Thomas's most famous role?

Marlo Thomas is best known for her role as Ann Marie in the sitcom "That Girl," which aired from 1966 to 1971. The show was a groundbreaking moment in television history, as it featured a single, independent woman as the main character.

Question 2: What is Marlo Thomas's most significant contribution to television?

Marlo Thomas has produced numerous documentaries and television shows that have tackled important social issues. Some of her most notable works include "Free to Be... You and Me," "The Marlo Thomas Special," and "Nobody's Child."

Question 3: What is Marlo Thomas's role in the Ms. Foundation for Women?

Marlo Thomas is a co-founder of the Ms. Foundation for Women, which supports women's equality and empowerment. The organization has funded research on the gender wage gap, violence against women, and the impact of poverty on women.

Question 4: What awards has Marlo Thomas received for her work?

Marlo Thomas has received numerous awards for her work, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Golden Globe Award, and the Emmy Award. She has also been honored by the Kennedy Center and the National Women's Hall of Fame.

Question 5: What is Marlo Thomas's legacy?

Marlo Thomas's legacy is one of social justice and equality. She has used her platform to speak out for the rights of women, children, and the LGBTQ+ community. Her work has made a significant impact on American culture, and she continues to be an inspiration to people of all ages.

Marlo Thomas is a true icon, and her work has had a profound impact on American culture. She is a role model for women and girls, and her activism has made a real difference in the world.

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Conclusion

Marlo Thomas is a true icon of American culture. Her work as an actress, producer, author, and activist has made a significant impact on society. She is a role model for women and girls, and her activism has made a real difference in the world.

Thomas's legacy is one of social justice and equality. She has used her platform to speak out for the rights of women, children, and the LGBTQ+ community. Her work has helped to change the way that we think about gender, race, and sexual orientation. Thomas is a true pioneer, and her work continues to inspire people of all ages.

As we look to the future, it is important to remember the work of Marlo Thomas and other activists who have fought for social justice. Their work has made a difference, and it is up to us to continue their legacy. We must all work together to create a more just and equitable world for all.