Edda Björgvinsdóttir

Edda Björgvinsdóttir (born Guðbjörg Edda Björgvinsdóttir on 13 September 1952 in Reykjavík) is a celebrated Icelandic actress, comedian, writer, director, and motivational speaker whose career spans over four decades. After completing a rigorous education that included philosophy at the University of Iceland, roentgen technology, and intensive drama studies at the United Drama School and the Icelandic Academy of Arts, she graduated with distinction in 1978 and quickly made her mark on the National Theatre of Iceland with a critically acclaimed debut in Jökull Jakobsson’s The Shoemakers Son the Bakers Daughter. Her versatility allowed her to fluidly transition between serious drama and broad comedy, earning her a reputation as one of the most individual and adaptable performers of her generation. Edda’s film breakthrough came with the title role in the 1986 comedy classic Stella í orlofi, while she simultaneously captivated television audiences through the sitcom Heilsubælið í Gervahverfi and the beloved annual comedy special Áramótaskaupið. Beyond screen and stage, she has cultivated a robust presence in live comedy clubs, delivering stand‑up routines that showcase her sharp wit and cultural insight, and later expanded her influence as a motivational speaker, sharing her experiences and encouraging personal growth. In addition to her artistic achievements, Edda pursued academic advancement, earning a master’s degree in cultural management from Bifröst University in 2013, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning and the development of Icelandic cultural policy. Her contributions were formally recognized in 2018 when she was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Order of the Falcon, underscoring her impact on Icelandic arts and society. Edda’s personal life mirrors her professional dynamism; she was married to fellow actor and comedian Gísli Rúnar Jónsson, with whom she has two sons, and she also raises two daughters from earlier relationships, balancing a vibrant family life with a demanding and influential career.