Penny Marshall

Penny Marshall, born Carole Penny Marshall, was an influential figure in the world of cinema, known for her versatile roles as an actress, film director and producer. She was born on October 15, 1943, in New York City. Marshall shot to fame with her role in the popular television sitcom Laverne & Shirley (1976–1983), earning three Golden Globe nominations for her performance. She debuted as a director with Jumpin' Jack Flash (1986) and made history with her film Big (1988), becoming the first female director to gross more than $100 million at the U.S. box office. Marshall went on to helm several critically-acclaimed films, including Awakenings (1990) which was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture, A League of Their Own (1992), Renaissance Man (1994), The Preacher's Wife (1996), and Riding in Cars with Boys (2001). She also produced films like Cinderella Man and Bewitched (both 2005), and directed episodes of TV series like According to Jim and United States of Tara.

Marshall's personal life was equally rich and eventful. She got married at a young age and had a daughter named Tracy. Her first marriage ended in a divorce, after which she married and divorced actor and director Rob Reiner. Marshall's engagements went beyond her professional and personal life as she lent a powerful voice to the cause of women in a male-dominated industry, and served as an inspiration to many aspiring female filmmakers. She passed away on December 17, 2018, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain.