Who is Shirley MacLaine?
Shirley MacLaine is an iconic American actress, dancer, author, and spiritual thinker whose career spans over seven decades. Known for her fearless performances and outspoken personality, she has starred in some of Hollywood’s most celebrated films, including The Apartment, Terms of Endearment, and Steel Magnolias. Beyond acting, MacLaine is also a prolific writer, having published several books on metaphysics, reincarnation, and her personal journey through fame and spirituality.
Shirley MacLaine Biography
Born Shirley MacLean Beaty on April 24, 1934, in Richmond, Virginia, MacLaine began her career as a dancer before transitioning to acting. Her big break came when she filled in for Carol Haney in the Broadway musical The Pajama Game, which led to her discovery by film producer Hal B. Wallis. She made her film debut in Alfred Hitchcock’s The Trouble with Harry (1955) and quickly rose to fame.
Throughout her career, she earned six Academy Award nominations, winning Best Actress for Terms of Endearment in 1983. She’s also received an Emmy, two BAFTAs, and six Golden Globes. MacLaine is celebrated not only for her talent but also for her boldness in tackling unconventional roles and her candidness about Hollywood and life.
Shirley MacLaine Family
Shirley MacLaine comes from a creative and intellectual family. Her younger brother is actor and filmmaker Warren Beatty. The siblings were raised in a Baptist household that encouraged artistic expression. MacLaine’s family life has been both a source of strength and complexity, especially in her relationship with her daughter, Sachi Parker.
Shirley MacLaine Net Worth
As of 2025, Shirley MacLaine’s estimated net worth is around $50.5 million. Her wealth stems from decades of film and television work, book sales, public speaking engagements, and royalties. She remains one of the most financially successful actresses of her generation.
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Shirley MacLaine Height
Shirley MacLaine stands at 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall. Her height and commanding presence contributed to her success on stage and screen, especially in dance-heavy roles like Sweet Charity.
Shirley MacLaine Ethnicity
MacLaine is of Scottish, English, Irish, and Welsh descent, with some remote French and Dutch ancestry. Her mother was Canadian, born in Nova Scotia, while her father hailed from Virginia. This rich cultural background has influenced her worldview and spiritual interests.
Shirley MacLaine Education
MacLaine attended Washington-Lee High School in Arlington, Virginia, where she was active in theater and dance. She studied ballet at the Washington School of Ballet and briefly attended the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo School. Though she didn’t pursue a traditional college education, her early training laid the foundation for her artistic career.
Shirley MacLaine Birthday
Shirley MacLaine was born on April 24, 1934, making her one of the last living stars from Hollywood’s Golden Age. Her birthday is often celebrated by fans and media outlets as a tribute to her enduring legacy.
Shirley MacLaine Husband
MacLaine was married to Steve Parker, a businessman and film producer, from 1954 to 1982. The couple had what MacLaine described as an “open marriage,” a concept that was unconventional at the time. Despite their separation, they remained connected through their daughter, Sachi.
Shirley MacLaine Children
Shirley MacLaine has one child, Sachi Parker, born in 1956. Sachi is an actress and author who has spoken openly about her complex relationship with her mother. Her memoir, Lucky Me, details her upbringing and emotional struggles, which MacLaine has publicly disputed.
Shirley MacLaine Age
As of 2025, Shirley MacLaine is 91 years old. Despite her age, she remains active, vibrant, and engaged in creative projects, including writing and occasional acting roles.
Shirley MacLaine Body Measurements
Shirley MacLaine’s body measurements are reported as:
- Bust: 33 in (86 cm)
- Waist: 24 in (61 cm)
- Hips: 33 in (86 cm)
- Bra Size: 38B (US)
- Weight: Approximately 130 lbs (59 kg)
- Shoe Size: US 9
Her graceful figure and expressive movement made her a standout in dance and musical roles.
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Shirley MacLaine Sister
Shirley MacLaine does not have a sister, but she has a younger brother, Warren Beatty, who is also a celebrated actor and filmmaker. The two have maintained a close, albeit occasionally complex, relationship throughout their lives.
Shirley MacLaine Nationality
Shirley MacLaine is American, born and raised in Richmond, Virginia. Her nationality reflects her deep roots in American cinema and culture.
Shirley MacLaine Parents
Her father, Ira Owens Beaty, was a psychology professor and public school administrator. Her mother, Kathlyn Corinne MacLean, was a drama teacher from Nova Scotia, Canada. Both parents encouraged creativity and education, shaping Shirley’s early interest in the arts.
Shirley MacLaine Birth Sign
Shirley MacLaine’s zodiac sign is Taurus. Taureans are known for their determination, loyalty, and appreciation for beauty—all traits that MacLaine has embodied throughout her life and career.
Shirley MacLaine Death
As of August 2025, Shirley MacLaine is alive and well at age 91. A recent death hoax circulated online, but her representatives confirmed she is healthy and active. She continues to work on creative projects, including a new book titled The Wall of Life, and remains a beloved figure in entertainment.
Shirley maclaine Movies
| Movie Title | Year | Role / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| The Trouble with Harry | 1955 | Debut film; played Jennifer Rogers |
| Around the World in 80 Days | 1956 | Princess Aouda |
| Some Came Running | 1958 | Ginny Moorhead; Oscar-nominated |
| The Apartment | 1960 | Fran Kubelik; iconic romantic comedy |
| Irma la Douce | 1963 | Irma; third Oscar nomination |
| Sweet Charity | 1969 | Charity Hope Valentine; musical classic |
| Two Mules for Sister Sara | 1970 | Sister Sara; opposite Clint Eastwood |
| The Turning Point | 1977 | DeeDee Rodgers; Oscar-nominated |
| Being There | 1979 | Eve Rand; with Peter Sellers |
| Terms of Endearment | 1983 | Aurora Greenway; won Academy Award |
| Steel Magnolias | 1989 | Ouiser Boudreaux; ensemble cast |
| Postcards from the Edge | 1990 | Doris Mann; based on Carrie Fisher’s novel |
| Guarding Tess | 1994 | Tess Carlisle; comedy-drama with Nicolas Cage |
| Bernie | 2011 | Marjorie Nugent; dark comedy |
| The Secret Life of Walter Mitty | 2013 | Mitty’s mother; heartfelt supporting role |
| The Last Word | 2017 | Harriet Lauler; late-career lead |
| Noelle | 2019 | Elf Polly; Disney holiday film |