Calista Kay Flockhart was born in Freeport, Illinois, to Kay and Ronald Flockhart. Her father was a Kraft Foods executive, leading the family to relocate several times during her childhood. This early exposure to new environments and people likely contributed to her adaptability and openness, qualities that would later serve her well in her acting career. The frequent moves instilled a sense of resilience and independence in her from a young age.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in theater from Rutgers University, Flockhart began her professional acting career on stage. She made her off-Broadway debut in 'Beside Herself,' gaining valuable experience and honing her skills. These early stage roles were instrumental in building her confidence and mastering the craft of acting. They demonstrated her dedication to the art form and her willingness to put in the hard work necessary to succeed.

Flockhart made her Broadway debut in Tennessee Williams' classic play, 'The Glass Menagerie,' alongside renowned actress Julie Harris. This marked a significant step in her career, as it provided her with wider recognition and the opportunity to showcase her talent to a larger audience. Appearing on Broadway validated her skills and cemented her status as a serious actress.

Flockhart's career reached new heights with her starring role as the titular character in the Fox television series 'Ally McBeal'. This role brought her widespread fame and critical acclaim, earning her a Golden Globe Award and three Primetime Emmy Award nominations. The show's unique blend of comedy and drama, coupled with Flockhart's portrayal of the quirky and neurotic Ally, resonated with audiences worldwide, making her a household name.

In 2001, Calista Flockhart adopted her son, Liam. This marked a significant and deeply personal turning point in her life, as she embraced motherhood and balanced her career with the responsibilities of raising a child. The decision to become a single parent highlighted her strength and independence, further endearing her to fans.

Following the end of 'Ally McBeal', Flockhart shifted her focus to motherhood and taking on selective film roles. She appeared in movies such as 'The Last Shot' and 'Frágiles,' demonstrating her versatility as an actress and her commitment to projects that interested her. This period allowed her to explore different genres and roles while prioritizing her family life.

Calista Flockhart began a relationship with actor Harrison Ford after meeting at the Golden Globe Awards in 2002. After dating for several years, they married in 2010. Their relationship has been a prominent part of the celebrity landscape, showcasing a loving and supportive partnership between two successful individuals. Ford has also been an active and supportive father figure to her son, Liam.

Flockhart returned to television in 2006 with a prominent role in the ABC drama 'Brothers & Sisters'. She played Kitty Walker, a political commentator with a complex family dynamic. This role allowed her to showcase her dramatic abilities and further solidify her position as a leading actress. The series was a success, garnering critical praise and a loyal fanbase.

In 2015, Flockhart joined the cast of the CBS (later CW) superhero series 'Supergirl' as Cat Grant, a media mogul and mentor to Supergirl. This role provided a platform for her to reach a new generation of viewers and demonstrate her comedic timing and strong character portrayal once again. This marked a continued presence in popular television and reasserted her relevance in the entertainment industry, even as she balanced her personal and professional lives.