Hollis McLaren

Hollis McLaren, born on February 5, 1956 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, emerged as one of the most distinctive Canadian actresses of her generation. After completing a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Windsor, she sharpened her craft at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, where she absorbed a rigorous approach to performance that would later inform her nuanced screen work. Her breakthrough arrived in 1977 with the cult classic Outrageous!, where she portrayed a bold, outspoken character inspired by writer Margaret Gibson; this role earned her a Canadian Film Award nomination for Best Actress and cemented her reputation for fearlessly tackling complex, often under‑represented women. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, McLaren built a versatile filmography that included titles such as Sudden Fury, Partners, Atlantic City, Jigsaw (L'Homme en colère) and Marion Bridge, demonstrating her ability to transition seamlessly between gritty drama, thriller, and heartfelt indie projects. On television, she enriched series like Pit Pony and the poignant TV film Mom at Sixteen, adding depth to her already impressive body of work. McLaren’s career, spanning from 1972 to the present, reflects a steadfast commitment to both Canadian and international storytelling, making her a respected figure among peers and audiences alike.
Beyond the screen, McLaren remains an advocate for artistic integrity and the empowerment of women in the entertainment industry. She frequently participates in panels, workshops, and mentorship programs, sharing insights from her decades‑long journey with emerging talent. Her continued presence in film and television, coupled with her dedication to nurturing the next generation, underscores a legacy that is both influential and enduring, resonating far beyond the roles that first brought her into the spotlight.