Laura Innes is an American actress and director. Her name is pronounced /lɔːrə ˈɪnɪs/. The first syllable is pronounced as "lore" with an elongated "o" sound, followed by the schwa sound in the second syllable. The last name is pronounced as "In-is" with a short "i" sound in the first syllable and a long "i" sound in the second syllable. The spelling of her name is straightforward and follows standard English phonetic conventions.
Laura Elizabeth Innes is an American actress and television director, born on August 16, 1957, in Pontiac, Michigan. She is best known for her portrayal of the character Dr. Kerry Weaver on the medical drama series ER, which aired from 1995 to 2009.
Innes initially gained attention for her talent as an actress in theater productions, particularly her work with Chicago's renowned Steppenwolf Theatre Company. Her success on stage led to opportunities in television and film, and she quickly became recognized for her versatility and strong performances.
In her breakthrough role on ER, Innes portrayed the highly capable and assertive character of Dr. Kerry Weaver, a chief attending physician at County General Hospital. Her portrayal earned critical acclaim and numerous award nominations, including three Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.
In addition to her acting career, Laura Innes has also ventured into directing. She has directed episodes for various television series, including ER, The West Wing, and Grey's Anatomy. Her directorial work has been well-received, and she has garnered praise for her ability to effectively guide both the actors and the narrative.
Throughout her career, Innes has been admired for her impressive range, authenticity, and dedication to her craft. She has established herself as a respected and influential figure in the entertainment industry, leaving a lasting impact with her memorable performances and contributions as a director.