Jodie Foster

Overview

Alicia Christian 'Jodie' Foster, born November 19, 1962, is an American actress, director, and producer whose career spans over five decades. From her early beginnings as a child star to her current status as a respected and versatile filmmaker, Foster's journey is marked by remarkable talent, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to challenging roles. This timeline highlights some of the key moments and periods that have shaped her extraordinary life and career.

Main Milestones

Birth in Los Angeles, California

November 19, 1962

Alicia Christian Foster, later known as Jodie Foster, was born in Los Angeles, California, to Evelyn Ella 'Brandy' Almond and Lucius Fisher Foster III. Her parents divorced before her birth, and she was primarily raised by her mother. This early familial structure profoundly impacted her independence and resourcefulness from a young age.

Early Television and Film Roles

1968 - 1975

Foster's acting career began at the age of three as the Coppertone Girl, appearing in television commercials. She quickly transitioned to television series like 'Mayberry R.F.D.' and 'The Courtship of Eddie's Father,' showcasing a natural talent and professional demeanor far beyond her years. These early experiences laid the groundwork for her future success in the entertainment industry.

Breakthrough Role in 'Taxi Driver'

1976

At just 13 years old, Foster landed the challenging and controversial role of Iris Steensma, a child prostitute, in Martin Scorsese's 'Taxi Driver.' Her performance was critically acclaimed and earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, solidifying her status as a serious actress and not just a child star. This role, while complex, catapulted her into the international spotlight.

Yale University Years

1980 - 1985

Despite her burgeoning acting career, Foster prioritized her education and attended Yale University, majoring in Literature. She took time off to pursue a degree, a move that demonstrated her intellectual curiosity and commitment to a life beyond acting. This period offered her a sense of normalcy and intellectual stimulation, crucial for navigating her highly public life.

First Academy Award for 'The Accused'

1988

Foster won her first Academy Award for Best Actress for her powerful performance as Sarah Tobias, a rape survivor, in 'The Accused.' The role demonstrated her willingness to tackle difficult and socially relevant themes, cementing her reputation as a dedicated and versatile actress. The performance showcases her powerful vulnerability and earned her high praise.

Second Academy Award for 'The Silence of the Lambs'

1991

Foster received her second Academy Award for Best Actress for her iconic portrayal of Clarice Starling, an FBI trainee who seeks the help of imprisoned cannibalistic serial killer Hannibal Lecter, in 'The Silence of the Lambs.' The film became a cultural phenomenon and remains one of her most recognizable roles, demonstrating her skill in portraying strong, intelligent female characters.

Directorial Debut with 'Little Man Tate'

1991 (Directorial Debut)

Foster made her directorial debut with 'Little Man Tate,' a film about a child prodigy and his single mother. This project showcased her burgeoning talents behind the camera and her desire to have more creative control over the stories she told. It marked a significant step in her evolution from actress to filmmaker.

Nell

1994

Foster starred in and produced the film 'Nell,' about a young woman who has been raised in isolation and speaks her own language. For her portrayal, Foster was nominated for an Academy Award and a Screen Actors Guild Award. Her performance was highly praised.

Received the Honorary César Award

2011

Jodie Foster received the Honorary César Award (France's national film award) in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to the world of cinema. This award recognized her impact on international filmmaking and her ability to transcend language and cultural barriers.

Publicly Acknowledges Her Sexual Orientation

2013

During her acceptance speech for the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Golden Globes, Foster publicly acknowledged her sexual orientation and long-term relationship with Cydney Bernard. This moment was seen as a significant step in her personal journey and brought her wider recognition and respect within the LGBTQ+ community.

Present: Continued Acting and Directing Career

2024

Jodie Foster continues to act in and direct films and television series, showcasing her enduring talent and commitment to her craft. She remains a prominent figure in Hollywood, admired for her intelligence, integrity, and dedication to telling compelling stories. Her recent projects demonstrate her continued willingness to embrace new challenges and her unwavering passion for filmmaking.

Other Themed Timelines

Awards and Recognition Timeline

Directing and Producing Career Timeline

Early Life and Education Timeline

Film Acting Career Timeline

Personal Life and Relationships Timeline

Stalking and Media Attention Timeline

Themed Timelines

Talks

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Overview

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