Who is Cara Buono?
Cara Buono is a versatile actress with a career spanning over three decades. She has worked in television, film, and theater, earning recognition for her ability to portray complex characters. While she has appeared in numerous projects, her most famous role is Karen Wheeler, the mother of Mike and Nancy Wheeler, in Stranger Things.
Cara Buono Biography
- Full Name: Cara Buono
- Date of Birth: March 1, 1971
- Place of Birth: The Bronx, New York City, USA
- Occupation: Actress
- Years Active: 1989–present
- Spouse: Peter Thum
- Children: 1
Buono grew up in a working-class Italian-American family in The Bronx. She developed an interest in acting early on and pursued it professionally after completing her education.
Cara Buono Career
Cara Buono’s career began in the late 1980s with stage performances before transitioning to television and film.
Highlights include:
Gladiator (1992) – Her film debut.
Law & Order (1996–2024) – Recurring appearances across different seasons.
Mad Men (2010) – Played Dr. Faye Miller, earning critical acclaim.
Stranger Things (2016–2025) – Her most famous role as Karen Wheeler.
Films such as Hulk (2003), Let Me In (2010), A Good Marriage (2014), Paper Towns (2015), and All Saints (2017).
Her performances have earned her Emmy nominations and recognition in both drama and children’s programming.
Cara Buono Education
Buono attended Columbia University, where she studied English and political science. She graduated with a double major, demonstrating her academic dedication alongside her artistic pursuits.
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Cara Buono Age
As of 2026, Cara Buono is 55 years old.
Cara Buono Nationality
She is American, born and raised in New York City.
Cara Buono Ethnicity
Buono is of Italian descent, reflecting her Bronx upbringing in a close-knit Italian-American family.
Cara Buono Instagram
Buono is active on Instagram @carabuono, where she shares behind-the-scenes photos, family moments, and updates about her career. Her account has a strong following thanks to her role in Stranger Things.
Cara Buono Birthday
Her birthday is March 1, 1971.
Cara Buono Birth Sign
Her zodiac sign is Pisces, often associated with creativity and empathy.
Cara Buono Husband
Cara Buono is married to Peter Thum, a social entrepreneur known for founding Ethos Water. The couple has been together for many years and share a strong bond.
Cara Buono Children
She has one child, a daughter, whose name she keeps private to protect her family’s privacy.
Cara Buono Net Worth
As of 2026, Cara Buono’s net worth is estimated at $11 million. Her income comes from acting, endorsements, and long-running roles in television series.
Acting Career
- Television: Buono’s recurring role as Karen Wheeler in Netflix’s Stranger Things has been one of her most financially rewarding projects. The global success of the series significantly boosted her earnings.
- Mad Men (2010): Her role as Dr. Faye Miller earned her critical acclaim and an Emmy nomination, adding prestige and value to her career.
- Law & Order Franchise: She has appeared in multiple episodes across different seasons, contributing steady income.
- Other TV Credits: The Sopranos, Third Watch, and Person of Interest.
Film Work
Buono has appeared in films such as:
- Gladiator (1992)
- Hulk (2003)
- Let Me In (2010)
- Paper Towns (2015)
- All Saints (2017)
These projects, while not always box-office blockbusters, added to her steady career earnings.
Endorsements and Public Appearances
Like many actors, Buono supplements her income through endorsements, conventions, and appearances related to her Stranger Things fame.
Net Worth Estimate
- 2025 Net Worth: $10 million
- Primary Sources of Wealth: Acting in television and film, endorsements, and appearances.
- Lifestyle: Buono lives in New York with her husband, Peter Thum, and their daughter.
Cara Buono’s Height
She stands at 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm).
Cara Buono’s Weight
Her weight is approximately 57 kg (126 lbs).
Cara Buono’s Siblings
Buono grew up with two brothers and one sister, raised by her parents Rosemary and Anthony Buono in The Bronx.
Cara Buono’s Body Measurements
Her body measurements are estimated at 34-25-35 inches, reflecting a balanced physique.
Cara Buono’s Dress
She typically wears a US dress size 4–6, fitting her slim build.
Cara Buono’s Stranger Things
Cara Buono plays Karen Wheeler, the mother of Mike, Nancy, and Holly Wheeler, in Stranger Things. Her character is portrayed as a caring but sometimes distracted parent, adding depth to the family dynamics in the series. Buono’s performance has made her a fan favorite, and she has appeared in all seasons of the show.
Cara Buono Movies and TV Shows
Movies:
- Gladiator (1992)
- Hulk (2003)
- Let Me In (2010)
- A Good Marriage (2014)
- Paper Towns (2015)
- All Saints (2017)
TV Shows:
- Law & Order (1996–2024)
- Mad Men (2010)
- The Sopranos (2006)
- Stranger Things (2016–2025)
Her diverse filmography demonstrates her ability to move seamlessly between genres, from horror to drama to comedy.