
Margaret Colin was born on May 26, 1958, in Brooklyn, New York, a city known for its rich artistic culture. Raised in an Irish-American Catholic household, she developed an early love for performing arts. Encouraged by her family to pursue higher education, she attended Baldwin Senior High School in Long Island before refining her acting skills at Hofstra University.
During her time in college, Margaret immersed herself in theater, learning the nuances of performance that would later define her career. Her dedication and natural talent made it clear—she was destined for the entertainment industry.
Video: Margaret Colin On Working With Ray Liotta Then And Now
Like many successful actors, Margaret Colin started in daytime television, where she quickly gained recognition. Her first major role came in the late 1970s with the popular ABC soap opera “The Edge of Night”, where she played Paige Madison.
The show’s success opened doors for her, leading to a significant role as Margo Montgomery Hughes in “As the World Turns.” Her emotionally layered performances showcased her ability to bring depth and authenticity to complex characters. These early roles gave her national exposure and solidified her as an actress to watch.

Margaret Colin’s transition from soap operas to primetime television was seamless. The 1980s and 1990s saw her starring in a variety of successful TV shows, proving her versatility across multiple genres. Some of her standout television performances include:
✔ “Foley Square” (1985-1986) – A legal sitcom where she played the intelligent and ambitious Assistant District Attorney Alex Harrigan.
✔ “Leg Work” (1987) – A crime drama where she portrayed a determined private investigator.
✔ “Chicago Hope” (1994-1995) – A medical drama where she played the compelling Dr. Karen Antonovich.
✔ “Now and Again” (1999-2000) – A sci-fi drama where she took on the role of Lisa Wiseman, the widow of a man secretly turned into a government experiment.
Margaret’s ability to balance comedy, drama, and action made her one of the most sought-after television actresses of her time.

While she thrived on television, Margaret Colin also made a significant impact in Hollywood films. Some of her most notable movie roles include:
✔ “Independence Day” (1996) – A blockbuster sci-fi film where she played White House Communications Director Constance Spano, alongside Jeff Goldblum.
✔ “The Devil’s Own” (1997) – A crime thriller starring Brad Pitt and Harrison Ford, where she played Sheila O’Meara.
✔ “Unfaithful” (2002) – A psychological drama with Diane Lane and Richard Gere, in which she played Sally, a close friend of the main character.
✔ “Something Wild” (1986) – A cult classic that solidified her status as a serious film actress.

Each role showcased Margaret’s ability to adapt to different genres, whether it was action, suspense, or character-driven dramas.
For a younger generation, Margaret Colin became widely recognized as Eleanor Waldorf in the hit CW series “Gossip Girl” (2007-2012). Playing the elegant yet tough fashion mogul and mother to Blair Waldorf (Leighton Meester), she brought sophistication and humor to the role.
Her performance was both memorable and impactful, earning praise for how she portrayed a powerful yet caring mother figure. This role reintroduced her to mainstream audiences and proved that her star power remained as strong as ever.
Video: Margaret Colin Shares Pretty In Pink Details & More Stories From Career
Even after decades in the industry, Margaret Colin continues to thrive in Hollywood, taking on exciting roles across television, film, and theater. Some of her most recent projects include:
✔ Guest-starring roles in hit TV series like “Blue Bloods” (2021) and “Chicago Med” (2022).
✔ Returning to Broadway, where she continues to showcase her stage-acting skills.
✔ New independent film projects, where she explores unique and challenging roles.
Her dedication and passion for acting remain unchanged, making her one of the most respected and admired actresses working today.

Margaret Colin’s career is a testament to longevity, versatility, and pure talent. Whether she’s playing a soap opera heroine, a legal powerhouse, a devoted mother, or a sci-fi film star, she has continuously reinvented herself in an ever-changing industry.
Her ability to bring authenticity and emotional depth to every role has solidified her place in Hollywood history. As she continues to captivate audiences with new projects, one thing is certain—Margaret Colin’s legacy is far from over.