Jayne Eastwood
Actor
About Jayne Eastwood
Jayne Eastwood is a Canadian actress and comedian whose career spans over five decades, beginning in the early 1970s. She first gained recognition as a founding member of the Toronto branch of The Second City comedy troupe, where she honed her improvisational skills. Eastwood transitioned to television with her work on the groundbreaking sketch comedy series 'Second City Television' (SCTV) in the 1970s. Her film career includes memorable supporting roles in major Hollywood productions such as 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding,' 'Chicago,' and 'Hairspray.' She has also done extensive voice work for animated series and films, including 'Wayside: The Movie' in 2005. Throughout her career, Eastwood has been known for her versatility, playing everything from quirky neighbors to authoritative figures with equal skill. She continues to work actively in both Canadian and American productions, maintaining a steady presence in film, television, and voice acting.
The Craft
On Screen
Eastwood is known for her comedic timing and ability to create memorable characterizations, often playing eccentric or authoritative figures with a humorous twist. Her background in sketch comedy and improvisation allows her to bring spontaneity and authenticity to her roles. She excels at both physical comedy and subtle facial expressions, making her supporting characters stand out even in ensemble casts.
Milestones
- Founding member of Toronto's Second City comedy troupe
- Regular performer on SCTV in the 1970s
- Supporting role in the Academy Award-winning film 'Chicago' (2002)
- Memorable performance as Mrs. White in 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding' (2002)
- Extensive voice acting career including 'Wayside: The Movie' (2005)
- Over 200 film and television appearances throughout her career
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Gemini Award for Best Performance in a Comedy Program or Series (1992)
Nominated
- Gemini Award nomination for Best Actress in a Dramatic Program or Mini-Series (1996)
- Canadian Comedy Award nomination (2004)
Special Recognition
- Canadian Comedy Awards' Lifetime Achievement Award recipient
- Star on Canada's Walk of Fame
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Jayne Eastwood has been instrumental in shaping Canadian comedy and entertainment, helping establish Canada as a significant force in North American comedy through her work with SCTV and The Second City. Her success in both Canadian and American productions has helped bridge the gap between the two entertainment industries. Eastwood's longevity and versatility have made her a role model for character actors, demonstrating the importance of supporting roles in creating memorable cinema and television.
Lasting Legacy
Eastwood's legacy lies in her contributions to Canadian comedy and her ability to consistently deliver memorable performances across multiple decades and genres. She represents the golden era of Canadian comedy that emerged in the 1970s and continues to influence contemporary performers. Her work in major Hollywood productions while maintaining her Canadian roots has helped pave the way for other Canadian actors to find success internationally.
Who They Inspired
Eastwood has influenced generations of Canadian comedians and actors through her work at The Second City and SCTV, institutions that have produced numerous successful performers. Her ability to transition seamlessly between comedy and drama, and between live-action and voice work, has shown aspiring actors the value of versatility in the entertainment industry.
Off Screen
Jayne Eastwood has maintained a relatively private personal life throughout her long career. She has been based primarily in Toronto, Canada, while occasionally working in the United States for film and television projects. Eastwood is known for her dedication to her craft and her commitment to Canadian entertainment, often choosing to work on Canadian productions when possible.
Education
Graduated from the University of Toronto with a degree in English Literature, trained at The Second City comedy troupe in Toronto
Family
- Louis Natale (1974-1979)
Did You Know?
- Was one of the original cast members of SCTV before it became nationally famous
- Has appeared in over 200 film and television productions
- Is a classically trained actress with a background in Shakespeare
- Has done extensive voice work for animated series including 'The Magic School Bus' and 'Arthur'
- Appeared in both the original 'Dawn of the Dead' (1978) and its remake (2004)
- Is a passionate advocate for Canadian arts and culture
- Has worked with some of Canada's most famous comedians including Jim Carrey and Mike Myers early in their careers
- Continues to perform live comedy shows in Toronto
- Has been described as 'Canada's busiest character actress'
- Was nominated for a Genie Award for her role in the film 'The Life Before This' (1999)
In Their Own Words
Comedy is truth plus timing. If you can find the truth in a situation and deliver it at the right moment, you'll get the laugh.
Being a character actor means you never get bored. Every role is a new person to discover and bring to life.
Canadian comedy has a unique voice - we're polite but we're not afraid to be subversive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Jayne Eastwood?
Jayne Eastwood is a Canadian actress and comedian born in 1946, known for her extensive career in film, television, and voice acting spanning over five decades. She was a founding member of Toronto's Second City and appeared on SCTV, later gaining international recognition through roles in films like 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding' and 'Chicago'.
What films is Jayne Eastwood best known for?
Eastwood is best known for her supporting roles in 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding' (2002) as Mrs. White, 'Chicago' (2002) as Mary Sunshine, 'Hairspray' (2007) as Prudy Pingleton, and for her voice work in 'Wayside: The Movie' (2005). She has appeared in over 200 film and television productions throughout her career.
When was Jayne Eastwood born and when did she die?
Jayne Eastwood was born on December 17, 1946, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She is still alive and continues to work actively in the entertainment industry.
What awards did Jayne Eastwood win?
Eastwood won a Gemini Award for Best Performance in a Comedy Program or Series in 1992 and has received numerous nominations throughout her career. She has also been honored with a star on Canada's Walk of Fame and received lifetime achievement recognition from the Canadian Comedy Awards.
What was Jayne Eastwood's acting style?
Eastwood's acting style is characterized by her comedic timing, versatility, and ability to create memorable characterizations. With her background in improvisation from The Second City, she brings spontaneity and authenticity to her roles, excelling at both physical comedy and subtle dramatic moments in supporting character parts.
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Films
1 film
