Jennifer Jason Leigh grew up in Hollywood and has never shied away from tough or provocative roles, all the while developing a reputation as one of the most interesting actors alive.
After four decades in the industry, the 53-year-old actress has finally earned her first Oscar nomination for her portrayal of the captive fugitive — and only female character — in Quentin Tarantino's "The Hateful Eight."
She also lent her voice to the Oscar-nominated stop-motion film "Anomalisa."
Starting with small film and TV roles in the '70s, Leigh's career took off following her role in the coming-of-age classic "Fast Times at Ridgemont High."
Since then, her career has included critically-acclaimed roles in films like "Miami Blues,""Mrs. Parker and the Vicious Circle," and "Georgia" (many people believe the latter should have earned her an Oscar nomination).
She currently has three other projects in the works, including a Lyndon B. Johnson biopic and the "Twin Peaks" revival.
Here's a look at her impressive four-decade career:
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Jennifer Leigh Morrow was born February 5, 1962, in Hollywood. Her parents, actor Vic Morrow and screenwriter Barbara Turner, were both in the industry.
Jennifer picked the middle name "Jason" in honor of family friend actor Jason Robards Jr.
Source: IMDB
Her first film role was a nonspeaking part in 1976's "The Spy Who Never Was," directed by her now ex-stepfather, Reza Badiyi. You never see her face.
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