Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is an American actress acclaimed for her versatility and compelling performances across stage, television, and film. She gained widespread recognition for her collaborations with producer Ryan Murphy on the anthology series American Horror Story and American Crime Story, earning critical praise and numerous accolades. Paulson's career is distinguished by her ability to portray complex, often historically-based characters with profound emotional depth.

Early life and education

Born in Tampa, Florida, she was raised by her mother after her parents' divorce, eventually moving to New York City and later Maine. She attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, honing her craft before making her professional stage debut. Her early interest in performance was nurtured in Greenwich Village and she graduated to pursue work in Off-Broadway theatre.

Career

Paulson's early career included a starring role on the television series *American Gothic* and a part in the NBC comedy *Leap of Faith*. She gained significant attention for her performance in the Playtone production of the HBO film Game Change, portraying John McCain's advisor Nicolle Wallace. Her pivotal collaboration with Ryan Murphy began with American Horror Story: Murder House, leading to celebrated roles across the anthology, including in American Horror Story: Asylum and American Horror Story: Cult. She earned an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story and starred as Geraldine Page in the film *The Goldfinch*. Recent notable work includes playing Linda Tripp in American Crime Story: Impeachment and Aline MacMahon in the Hulu series *Hollywood*.

Personal life

Paulson has been in a relationship with actress Holland Taylor since 2015, and they reside together in Los Angeles. She is known for her close friendships within the entertainment industry, including with actress Amanda Peet and playwright Tracy Letts. An advocate for LGBT rights, she has spoken publicly about her relationship and identity. Paulson is also a supporter of various charitable organizations, including The Trevor Project.

Acting style and reception

Critics frequently praise Paulson for her intense commitment and meticulous character study, often highlighting her work in projects by Ryan Murphy. The New York Times has noted her "fearless emotional transparency," while *Variety* has commended her "chameleonic versatility." Her performances in American Horror Story: Asylum and The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story are particularly cited for their depth and complexity. This acclaim is reflected in her awards recognition from the Golden Globe Awards, Screen Actors Guild Awards, and Critics' Choice Television Awards.

Filmography and awards

Her extensive film work includes roles in *Down with Love*, The Notorious Bettie Page, Martha Marcy May Marlene, *12 Years a Slave*, *Carol*, *The Post*, and *Bird Box*. On television, beyond her FX anthology work, she has appeared in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip and *Ratched*. Her stage credits include Broadway productions of The Glass Menagerie and Talley's Folly. Among her many honors are a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie, a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Miniseries or Television Film, and a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Miniseries or Television Movie.

Category:American film actresses Category:American television actresses Category:American stage actresses Category:Primetime Emmy Award winners Category:1974 births Category:Living people